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Consumers kick as IBEDC hikes energy cost

Published

3 months ago

January 27, 2025

The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company is under fire for raising its minimum energy credit purchase requirement for Band A customers to N5,000.

The Disco also capped the minimum energy credit for customers on other bands at N2,000, sparking outrage and condemnation from various consumer groups.

In a message to its customers, the IBEDC said, “Please be informed of a recent update regarding IBEDC electricity recharge. Users on Band A must now make a minimum recharge purchase of N5,000. Users in other bands must make a minimum purchase of N2,000.

“Kindly note that this new payment structure is effective already and applies exclusively to IBEDC customers.”

The PUNCH reports that before now, customers were allowed to purchase energy credit of any amount and this still operates in other Discos except the IBEDC.

The spokesperson of the Ibadan Disco, Busolami Tunwase, said this new policy was to curb energy theft, but she did not give further details about how this will be achieved.

“It’s part of efforts at curbing energy theft,” she tersely replied when our correspondent contacted her.

Defending the initiative, a top official of the company who did not want to be mentioned, said currently, while reviewing the vending platform, it was discovered that some customers were vending low amounts which they use for a whole month, wondering if this could be possible.

“If a Band A customer vends 50 units, the amount to pay is N10,450 exclusive of VAT. So, this means the customer is using less than two units a day for one month? We think this is practically impossible,” the official stated.

He noted that some customers were engaging in meter bypass, thereby paying little to enjoy a stable power supply.

Speaking on the matter, the National Coordinator of All Electricity Consumers Forum, Adeola Samuel-Ilori, noted that the policy has to be reversed to avoid backslashes.

Samuel-Ilori said it is against consumers’ right to choice and this may trigger litigations.

“It’s unacceptable to take away the right of people to choose what their purchasing power can afford. Electricity is not a privilege but a right under the constitution and power sector law of operation. A reversal will be required in my official letter to the IBEDC this week. And after the ultimatum, we may engage litigations to compel reversal,” he told The PUNCH.

Also, the Convener of PowerUp Nigeria, Adetayo Adegbemle, remarked, “I don’t think there’s anything in the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s regulation that supports such limitations from IBEDC. I understand IBEDC is trying to raise its collections, but it needs to be careful not to incur further penalties from the regulators.”

Adegbemle maintained that the policy will not curb energy theft, but it will rather encourage it if people are not able to vend according to their pockets.

The President of the Nigeria Consumer Protection Network, Kola Olubiyo, told our correspondent that the Federal Competition And Consumer Protection Commission and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission are already investigating the allegations.

He said, “The very essence of promoting a competitive electricity market and the right to choice and freedom of the end-user customers in these particular circumstances are being undermined.

“It is an absurdity and an unthinkable monopolistic conscription of the demand side of the market.”

Similarly, the Executive Director of the Electricity Consumer Protection Advocacy Centre, Princewill Okorie, lamented that the power sector is increasingly becoming oppressive and anti-consumer friendly, reeling out policies that are not in line with realities.

Okorie wondered why a customer would be compelled to buy the quantity of product he is not ready for.

Okorie stressed, “The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission should be approached to do its job of protecting consumers in line with the provisions of their Act.

“Why will a consumer be forced to buy the quantity of product he is not ready for? This administration needs to explain if they are here to protect the welfare and security of the people or to oppress them. Civil liberty and civil rights need to be protected.”

Credit: PUNCH

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A Chat with Janet Odio Okolo: A Mother’s Journey Raising a Child with Down Syndrome

Published

7 hours ago

April 30, 2025

Gloria Ikibah

Down syndrome: It’s a congenital condition characterized by a distinctive pattern of physical characteristics including a flattened skull, pronounced folds of skin in the inner corners of the eyes, large tongue, and short stature, and by some degree of limitation of intellectual ability and social and practical skills. It usually arises from a defect involving chromosome. Above definition succinctly describes what Janet Odio Okolo had to go through to sustain her daughter. In this chat she narrated her experience to naijablitznews Associate Editor, Gloria Ikibah, excerpts.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

My name is Janet Odio Okolo. I often introduce myself as a proud mother of a 13-year-old girl, Isioma, who lives with Down syndrome. I call her my “star girl.”

Professionally, I’m into catering and equipment rentals. I provide catering equipment like plates, cutlery, chafing dishes, and more to other caterers. Alongside that, I run a few side businesses to support my family.

What has been the most rewarding part of raising a child with Down syndrome? And how has it impacted your life and perspective?

Raising Isioma has helped me discover parts of myself I didn’t know existed—patience, empathy, selflessness.

She has taught me to see people beyond the surface, to understand others deeply and kindly. These qualities have added great value to my life and relationships. It’s been a journey of self-discovery, and I am better for it.

There are often different perceptions about Down syndrome. What’s yours?

I had prior knowledge about Down syndrome before Isioma was born, so it wasn’t a total shock. People have different opinions—some based on facts, others rooted in myths.

But for me, Isioma is God’s creation. I didn’t create her, but she came into my life with purpose. I embraced her fully, and that acceptance has made the journey smoother.

Can you share a particular challenge you’ve faced raising Isioma and how you overcame it?

There are challenges, no doubt, but I’ve chosen to see them as opportunities for growth. One that stands out is watching her peers, cousins, friends progress faster. At 2 or 3 years old, they were on the same level, but over time, many of them moved ahead academically and developmentally.

It used to bother me. Some of them are now in secondary school or boarding houses, while Isioma is still in primary school. But I remind myself that every child moves at their own pace. With the right support, Isioma will get there, and she’s already doing very well.

How do you think society can better support and include individuals with Down syndrome?

Support must go beyond the family, it must come from the entire society. These children live in communities, go to school, attend church, and access healthcare.

In schools, there should be inclusive programs tailored to their pace. Let them participate in games, cultural days, and other activities. Don’t exclude them because they “can’t dance” or “can’t sing.” Involve them.

In the neighbourhood, encourage inclusion during play. For instance, a friend told me her son who also has Down syndrome is often excluded from football because he scores own goals. But I say: be patient, teach him the rules, guide him. That’s what inclusion looks like.

In churches, let’s involve them in prayers, praise, and worship. Make them feel seen and valued.

Hospitals should be more patient and friendly with these children. That environment should make them feel safe and open.

And for family members and friends support can be as simple as offering to look after the child for a weekend so the parent can rest. That kind of emotional and practical support goes a long way.

What are your hopes and dreams for Isioma? What steps are you taking to help her achieve them?

Oh, I have big dreams for her! And she has dreams too. For example, Isioma loves the runway, she loves to strut like a model.

So, I’m investing in that. I got her a coach to help her build on this interest. My goal is for her to be independent one day, to earn a living through something she enjoys.

Parents need to pay attention, observe what their children love, then build on it. Some want to bake, sing, sew, or dance. Equip them with skills. That’s what I’m doing with Isioma. Even if I’m not around tomorrow, I want her to be confident and self-sufficient.

What advice would you give to parents who’ve just received a Down syndrome diagnosis for their child?

The first step is acceptance. Don’t live in denial. Don’t say, “God forbid” or “I reject it.” That only delays the journey to support.

I remember when Isioma was about six months old, I took her to a popular hospital. The pediatrician just looked at her and bluntly said, “This child has Down syndrome.” She didn’t offer any emotional support, she just dismissed me. That experience hurts.

But instead of giving up, I started researching. I saw a lot online that was scary and discouraging, so I decided to create my own path for her.

To new parents: it’s not a death sentence. With love, care, and professional support, your child can thrive. Don’t fall for superstitions, stigmatization, or spiritual manipulation. Focus on solutions. Be your child’s biggest cheerleader, and others will follow your lead.

How supportive are your other children?

They’re very supportive, although due to age differences and school schedules, they weren’t always around. But whenever they’re home, they show her so much love. They treat her like their little queen. The bond is strong, even in limited time.

What are your expectations from the government and society at large?

There are government policies for people with special needs, but the problem is implementation. These policies often remain on paper.

We need action. Especially in healthcare, many of these children have underlying conditions that require consistent medical attention. Parents, especially indigent ones, can’t always afford this.

Recently, I saw a young girl with Down syndrome at a fish market, begging. She looked unkempt. I was with Isioma, and people noticed the connection. I tried to reach out to the girl’s mother to offer help even if not financial, at least advice and direction.

Children like that are vulnerable to abuse, exploitation, and neglect. We need the government to provide safe spaces, education, healthcare, and skills training, especially for families who can’t afford it.

Finally, any last words to society about children with Down syndrome?

They are not a mistake. They are not a burden. They are people with potential just like every other child.

Let’s remove the stigma. Let’s embrace inclusion. Let’s create a world where they are seen, heard, and loved for who they are.

News

Hon. Nnamchi Begins Street Lights Deployment In Isi Uzo(Photos)

Published

8 hours ago

April 30, 2025

ADMIN

Honourable Paul Sunday Nnamchi, representing Enugu East/Isi Uzo Federal Constituency in the 10th House of Representatives, has fulfilled his promise to illuminate communities in Isi Uzo Local Government Area.

The lawmaker has just begun the deployment of high-density solar-powered street lights in Ikem Nkwo, marking the beginning of a massive rollout of the street lamps across the communities in Isi Uzo.

This initiative, which started in Enugu East Local Government Area in 2024, aims to support the fight against insecurity in the state which according to him was to add to what Chief Security Officer of Enugu State Barrister Peter Mba had done to secure the state to attracts foreign investments.

The lawmaker expressed concern over banditry attacks, particularly by herdsmen, in some communities within Isi Uzo and Enugu East Local Government Areas in the recent pasts.

He believes that illuminating these areas with high-density street lights would help address the insecurity adding that he was prioritizing border and farming communities in Isi Uzo, where banditry has displaced residents and restricted farming activities.

Communities in Ikem, Eha-Amufu in Isi Uzo which borders Enugu and Benue State and Ugwogo-Nike in Enugu East have been vulnerable to these attacks due to their strategic locations.

News

May Day: Kalu Hails Workers, Applauds Their Role in Nation Building

Published

8 hours ago

April 30, 2025

Gloria Ikibah

By Gloria Ikibah

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has extended warm wishes to Nigerian workers as the country marks the 2025 edition of International Workers’ Day.

Kalu praised workers across various sectors for their commitment and resilience, describing them as the engine that keeps the nation moving. He acknowledged their sacrifices and unrelenting drive, especially during tough economic times.

In his message, he highlighted the efforts of the current administration under President Bola Tinubu to improve the welfare of public servants. He referenced the National Assembly’s prompt backing of the new minimum wage as a sign of the government’s seriousness about workers’ wellbeing.

The Deputy Speaker appealed for continued patience and understanding from Nigerians, noting that the ongoing economic reforms, while challenging, are designed to bring long-term relief and prosperity.

Kalu also called for unity, and said the country can only overcome its present difficulties if citizens and leaders work together in good faith.

He therefore urged workers to keep the faith and remain steadfast in their duties, assuring them that brighter days are on the horizon, and wished Nigerian workers a peaceful and fulfilling May Day celebration.