Residents of Ishokan Estate Phase One in Ayobo, Lagos State, have been enduring prolonged power outages due to a clash between Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (Ayobo Undertaking) and a local homeowner.
The dispute began on September 1, 2024, when power was cut off following construction work on a drainage system by the homeowner. The construction allegedly damaged electrical poles in the area.
The homeowner, who is building a duplex, claimed that she was initially told by Ikeja Electric to pay 300,000 naira to relocate the poles. When she refused and arranged for an electrician to handle the task, Ikeja Electric demanded 2.6 million naira to restore power, citing the need to replace poles and rectify alleged tampering.
Community leaders have expressed frustration over the extended blackout, which has left residents without electricity for nearly two weeks. Despite the homeowner’s admission of fault, she accuses Ikeja Electric of attempting to extort her with an exorbitant fee.
John, a technical assistant to the Ayobo Undertaking Manager, confirmed that the homeowner did not adhere to the required procedures and that the power cut was a consequence of the damage caused by the unauthorized drainage work. He indicated that the restoration of power hinges on the homeowner purchasing two new poles and paying a fine.
Residents of Adewale Badmus Close and Samuel Adu Close have pleaded for the power to be restored, but their requests have been met with silence from Ikeja Electric. A source from the Akowonjo Business District alleged that the 2.6 million naira fine demanded by Ikeja Electric is an attempt to extort money, noting that the poles and wires remain in good condition.
The community is calling for Ikeja Electric to address the situation by penalizing the homeowner without punishing the entire estate, and to restore electricity as soon as possible.
News Editor