Kaduna, Aug. 2, 2024 – The Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) has disconnected electricity supply to Kaduna Government House over N2.9 billion indebtedness.
Abdulazeez Abdullahi, its Head of Corporation Communication unit, disclosed this in a statement on Friday.
He said the government house had not paid for electricity consumed for seven months.
The Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), had earlier on Friday sealed KEDC office over N600 million tax liabilities.
Abdullahi said the disconnection took effect after extensive efforts to resolve the issue through consultations and reconciliations.
He said: “In a dramatic move that underscores growing tensions between utility providers and state governments, Kaduna Electric has cut off electricity supply to the Kaduna State Government House and other state government accounts due to unpaid bills.
“Kaduna Electric announced the disconnection after extensive efforts to resolve the issue through consultations and reconciliations.
“The outstanding balance for electricity consumed from January 2024 to July 2024 alone amounts to a staggering N1,166 billion.
“This figure, including the historical debt, has left the State Government with a huge debt that currently stands at a total of N2,943 billion.”
“Kaduna Electric’s decision to disconnect power came after repeated attempts to address the payment issues, including several consultations with state officials.
“In contrast, other states under the Kaduna Electric franchise, namely Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara, have maintained their accounts in good standing, regularly meeting their electricity payment obligations and other repayment obligations with Kaduna Electric.
“A disconnection notice was formally issued on July 21, 2024, and was received by the Office of the Governor on July 22, 2024.
“The move reflects the company’s need to meet its own financial obligations amidst the broader challenges facing the electricity sector,” he said.
