The Obafemi Awolowo Train Station in Ibadan has been without electricity for weeks after the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) disconnected it over unpaid power bills.
The disconnection affects the Moniya Railway 33kV feeder, the main power source for the station, which remains off due to the outstanding debt. IBEDC described the amount owed as substantial but did not reveal the exact figure.
In a statement, IBEDC apologized for interruptions in power supply, citing reasons including forced outages by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), load shedding, faults, and planned disconnections. The company confirmed that all other affected feeders have been restored except the one supplying the train station.
Mrs. Angela Olanrewaju, IBEDC’s Coordinating Head of Corporate Services, confirmed the disconnection and said, “It is true that the station has been disconnected from the grid. I cannot disclose the amount, but they are owing the company.”
The power cut has left the train station in darkness, affecting operations and causing inconvenience to commuters who rely on the facility.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by public infrastructure in Nigeria, especially regarding the timely payment of utility bills. Authorities are yet to respond publicly to the disconnection or indicate when power might be restored.
