The University of Lagos (UNILAG) in Akoka has experienced a power outage after the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) disconnected its electricity supply due to outstanding bills.
This disconnection occurred even though the university had recently paid N180 million for July’s electricity usage.
In an official notice titled “Important Notice: Power Outage on Campus,” the university’s Communication Unit addressed the situation, informing the campus community about the power cut.
The notice stated, “The management of the University of Lagos regrets to inform the community that EKEDC has disconnected our power supply. Despite our payment of N180 million for July, we were cut off on August 27, 2024, without prior notice. Our attempts to resolve the issue with EKEDC have been unsuccessful, despite previous agreements.”
The university’s billing situation worsened after it was moved from Band B to Band A following new tariffs set by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). This change caused the university’s electricity bill to rise from an average of N150-N180 million per month to nearly N300 million in June 2024.
In response, UNILAG engaged EKEDC to negotiate the high June bill and expressed its inability to handle the costs associated with Band A. The university communicated that it could only manage payments of up to N180 million monthly for the current budget year, with any outstanding balance to be addressed in the following budget.
The statement continued, “Despite our clear stance that we could not afford the Band A tariff, we were presented with a bill of nearly N472 million for July. We adhered to our commitment and paid N180 million on August 20, yet the disconnection occurred on August 27 without any prior notification.”
The university management has expressed regret over the disruption and is working to address the issue.
“In the meantime, we ask the university community to remain patient as we implement a power rationing schedule across the campus. Details of this schedule will be provided soon to help everyone plan accordingly,” the statement concluded.
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