Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has urged its customers to avoid making payments to individuals or unauthorised agents for its services.
The warning follows the arraignment of Mufutau Olohunkemi Bello, who, under the guise of being an EKEDC staff member, defrauded a customer in the Ojo Business District of N760,375 for the purchase of seven prepaid meters.
The company stressed that all payments should be made directly through official and approved channels made available to the public.
Bello was apprehended by officers of the Onireke Police Station and charged with impersonation, obtaining money under false pretenses, and stealing, all under the Criminal Laws of Lagos State.
In a statement, Babatunde Lasaki, General Manager of Corporate Communications at EKEDC, described Bello’s actions as both criminal and unfortunate, particularly in the current challenging economic climate.
He advised customers to avoid seeking help from individuals or unauthorized agents to prevent being defrauded.
“I would like to appeal to our customers to use our official and approved channels for bill payments and meter purchases. For any clarifications, they can contact our customer service lines, reach us via social media platforms, or visit any of our office locations. We are available to address their inquiries and assist with their needs. Also, no gratification of any form should be given to our staff, as they are paid to serve and support customers.”
Similarly, Ifeanyi Enekwunchi was arraigned before Hon. (Mrs.) A.O. Akokhia’s Magistrate Court 1 in Iba on a three-count charge of conspiracy to tamper with EKEDC’s electric wires, conduct likely to breach the peace, and unlawful interference with electric wires through illegal reconnection after being disconnected for nonpayment.
Lasaki further advised customers against engaging in illegal activities, warning that EKEDC would not tolerate any act of illegality or malpractice. He encouraged customers to seek amicable solutions through the available mechanisms rather than resorting to self-help.