UNILAG Goes Dark In Big 2024 Over Unpaid Light Bills

[justseyi]

The University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, is currently experiencing a power outage after the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) disconnected its electricity supply due to unpaid bills. This disconnection occurred even though UNILAG had recently paid N180 million to EKEDC for the electricity consumed in July.

In an official statement titled “Important Notice: Power Outage on Campus,” the Head of the Communication Unit at UNILAG informed the university community about the situation. The statement explained that the university had made the payment but was still disconnected on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, without any prior notice. The university’s efforts to negotiate with EKEDC to restore power have so far been unsuccessful, despite earlier agreements.

The power issue escalated after UNILAG was unexpectedly moved from Band B to Band A under the differential tariff system introduced by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). This shift caused the university’s electricity bill to soar from an average of N150-N180 million per month to nearly N300 million in June 2024. In response, UNILAG had engaged in discussions with EKEDC, expressing its preference to remain in Band B due to financial constraints.

During these discussions, UNILAG emphasized that it could not afford the higher Band A tariff and was only capable of paying up to N180 million monthly for the remainder of the budget year, with any outstanding balances to be addressed in the next budget. Despite these discussions, UNILAG received a July bill of almost N472 million, significantly increasing its financial burden. The university paid N180 million on August 20, but EKEDC proceeded with the disconnection seven days later, on August 27, without prior notice.

The UNILAG management has expressed regret over the disconnection and is actively working to resolve the issue. In the meantime, the university community has been advised to stay calm as the management implements a power rationing plan across the campus until further notice. A schedule for this rationing will be provided to help members of the community plan accordingly.

[Author]

Posts