Eastland Electricity Distribution Limited has raised alarm over a surge in energy theft in Ebonyi State, revealing that more than 300 cases of meter bypass and tampering were detected in the first quarter of 2026.
The disclosure was made in a statement issued on Thursday, April 9, 2026, in Abakaliki by the company’s Head of Communications, Patience Ezeagu.
According to the statement, the cases were uncovered through intensified inspection and enforcement operations carried out by EEDL’s technical and commercial teams across the state, supported by detailed reports as well as pictorial and video evidence.
Ezeagu condemned the growing trend, describing energy theft as both illegal and harmful to the power sector.
“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.
She warned that such practices contribute to transformer overload, frequent power disruptions, rising operational costs, and serious safety risks, including fire outbreaks and electrocution.
The company also expressed concern over reported incidents where some customers allegedly obstructed or attacked its field personnel during inspection exercises.
Reaffirming its commitment to improving electricity supply, Ezeagu said the company remains focused on supporting development in Ebonyi through reliable energy distribution.
“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.
EEDL disclosed that offenders have been issued penalty charges in line with existing regulations, warning that further actions, including disconnection and possible prosecution, may follow where necessary.
The company said it has intensified surveillance operations across the state and urged customers involved in illegal connections to desist and regularise their electricity usage to avoid sanctions.
It also called on residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to support the fight against energy theft by reporting suspicious activities.
EEDL reiterated its commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and efficient electricity services while safeguarding the interests of law-abiding customers in the state.
