Ebinum Samuel
A planned massive protest by community leaders and residents over electricity supply challenges in parts of Ifo Local Government Area has taken a consultative approach following the intervention of the Nigeria Police Force, Ifo Division.
According to DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the police officer in charge of public relations in the state, said the intervention, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), CSP Olabisi Adebayo Kamor facilitated a meeting between community representatives and the management of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) at the Ifo Police Station.
The engagement provided an opportunity for both parties to discuss the grievances of affected communities, particularly residents of Olomu and Eyin Ope, and explore possible solutions to the persistent electricity challenges.
KEY DEMANDS PRESENTED TO IBEDC
During the meeting, the community representatives presented the following demands for consideration and resolution:
1.Removal of T-Off Isolators: Immediate removal of the T-off isolators affecting electricity supply to Olomu and Eyin Ope communities,
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2. Reversal and Refund of Charges: Reversal and refund of electricity charges imposed during periods of no power supply, covering November 2025 to August 2026.
3. Reclassification of Customers: Reclassification of affected customers in Olomu and Eyin Ope from Bands A, B, C and D to Band E, alongside appropriate refunds where applicable.
4. Replacement of Stolen Infrastructure: Replacement of stolen electricity cables and prepaid meters affecting 13 transformers under Olomu community.
POLICE INTERVENTION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The meeting demonstrated the importance of dialogue and constructive engagement in addressing community grievances and preventing possible breakdowns in public order.
The intervention of the Ifo Police Division created an avenue for community representatives and IBEDC management to engage directly on the concerns affecting electricity consumers.
While the community’s demands remain central to the engagement, residents will be looking forward to concrete actions and timely responses from IBEDC towards resolving the outstanding issues.
Commendations go to the Nigeria Police Force, Ifo Division, under the leadership of CSP Olabisi Adebayo Kamor, and the Area Commander, ACP Seyi Williams, for their intervention and efforts towards promoting peaceful consultation between the communities and IBEDC management.
The expectation of the affected residents is that the discussions will translate into practical solutions and improved electricity services.
