IKEDC stalls hook up of New Akinbaye transformer over 3.5m debt
By Damilola Kushimo
The joy of residents of Akinbaye ward following the procurement of new 500 KVA transformer by Hon. Shamsudeen Olaleye-led administration was short-lived.
Reason: the IKEDC says it won’t connect the transformer unless the residents pay N3.5million owed.
The community had hoped to enjoy electricity after about one and half years of total darkness that began onWednesday, November 7, 2018.
Though the residents were full of appreciation as they woke up on Thursday, February 13 to the shocking reality of having a new transformer, the management of Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) is adamant that the transformer would not be fixed and energised without full payment of the N3.5million debt by the community.
The transformer was a fulfillment of the Council chairman, Hon. Shamsudeen Olaleye’s promise two weeks ago to replace the faulty one for the community to be powered.
Appreciating the gesture, the chairman of Akinbaiye Community Development Association, Mr. Samson Fatoye, said the council chairman has responded to their request for a new transformer within a short period.
Fatoye, who doubles as the Secretary of Isolo Community Development Committee (CDC), said: “We are extremely grateful to the council chairman for fulfilling his promise. Though our request for a new transformer came about two weeks ago, he proved he is a man of honour, a promise keeper and a man of his words.
“We cannot thank him enough because he is delivering on his promises. He has promised to construct Moshalashi Street and now the contractor has moved to the site. This indeed is marvelous and we are indeed happy.”
The CDA Public Relations Officer, Alfa Jelili Adewale Cameroon said: “We cannot appreciate our chairman enough. May he not be left with his problem! We urge all those who are yet to pay to do so. Yes, before now we said we wouldn’t balance up until we have the transformer now, we have it, those who are yet to balance up are beginning to do so and we will encourage more to perfect their bills.”
However, the CDA Secretary, Mrs. Sherufat Ashalaejo appealed to IKEDC to keep their words by ensuring that the transformer is energised immediately the payment of N3,517,906 is met and not make the resident pay more.
Meanwhile, the Manager of Isolo IKEDC Undertaking Office, Mr. Pius Oyinkoye, said though the community has made 70 per cent payment, the transformer may not be restored until full payment of the debt is made and execution of other necessary process on the transformer.
