The Eastland Electricity Distribution Limited (EEDL) has raised concerns over the incidence of meter bypass and other forms of energy theft across communities in Ebonyi.
The company disclosed that over 300 confirmed cases were uncovered during monitoring and enforcement operations carried out in the first quarter of 2026.
This is contained in a statement issued to newsmen in Abakaliki on Friday by the Head of Communications of EEDL, Mrs. Patience Ezeagu.
Ezeagu explained that the cases were identified following intensified inspections conducted by the company’s technical and commercial teams across the state.
She noted that the inspections were part of efforts to protect electricity infrastructure and improve service delivery.
“EEDL strongly condemns meter bypass and energy theft. The practice is illegal, dangerous, and detrimental to sustainable electricity supply.
“Meter bypass and energy theft are criminal acts that sabotage the power sector, damage critical infrastructure, and deprive honest customers of quality power supply.
“Electricity facilities are shared community assets, and when individuals tamper with meters or steal energy, entire communities suffer outages and equipment failures,” she said.
Ezeagu noted that energy theft contributes significantly to transformer overload, frequent power interruptions, increased operational costs, and safety hazards, including fire outbreaks and electrocution.
She further condemned reported incidents where some customers allegedly attacked or obstructed EEDL field personnel during inspection activities.
The Head of Communications emphasised that EEDL remained committed to supporting economic growth and development in Ebonyi through improved energy distribution and network enhancement.
“EEDL has come to partner with the people and government of Ebonyi State to drive development through reliable electricity supply.
“However, no electricity business can survive or sustain improvement efforts if energy theft continues unabated. Responsible energy use is essential for progress,” she added.
The company disclosed that customers found culpable have been issued penalty charges in line with existing electricity regulations.
“Further enforcement measures, including disconnection and possible prosecution, may be applied where necessary,” she said.
The Head of Communications also announced that monitoring and surveillance operations have been intensified across the state and advised customers currently involved in meter bypass or unauthorised connections to desist from such acts.
The company appealed to residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to support efforts aimed at combating energy theft by reporting suspicious electricity activities within their communities.
EEDL reaffirmed its commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and efficient electricity services while protecting the interests of law-abiding customers across the state.