By our reporter
Following complaints by the Management of BEDC Electricity Plc, Detectives of the Department of State Services in Asaba have arrested and handed over to the Police one Aliu Junior Fayemi for allegedly diverting and selling meters meant for installation under the Distribution Sector Recovery Program (DISREP).
According to security findings following Fayemi’s arrest, he allegedly diverted and sold four meters to different customers in Asaba, instead of installing them for the designated BEDC customers under the free DISREP metering scheme.
Investigations further revealed during interrogation that Fayemi allegedly sold a single-phase meter for ₦145,000, while a three-phase meter was sold for ₦250,000, contrary to the objectives of the programme designed to install free meters to customers to bridge the metering gap in the Nigerian Power Sector.
Commenting on the development, the Regional Head, Asaba, Gboyega Agunlejika confirmed the arrest and disclosed that all the diverted meters have been recovered from the buyers.
He stated that the next step is to ensure that all accomplices connected to the illegal transaction are prosecuted, noting that the matter has already been handed over to the police for further investigation, possible arraignment, and prosecution in accordance with the extant laws of the land.
Engr. Jonathan Lawani, the Ag. MD/CEO advised all customers to desist from engaging private individuals in procuring meters under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme. He said, MAP is the only programme where customers are expected to pay for meters, and such applications and payments are done online through the BEDC website. Customers should desist from paying money yo any individual for the procurement of meters.
Engr. Lawani further explained that all other schemes. Such as Meter Asset Fund, MAF and the DISREP metering schemes are free meter rolllout schemes. No customer is expected to apply or make payments for DISREP meter including installation. He warned that anyone found diverting and selling the meters will face the full roots of the law.
Industry observers believe that the arrest of Aliu Fayemi will help address the negative public impression that staff of BEDC Electricity Plc are involved in the illicit diversion and sale of meters.
The development is also seen as a strong signal of commitment to protecting the federal government’s effort toward eliminating estimated billing and closing the metering gap in the power sector, while ensuring that meters allocated under the programme reach legitimate customers without compromise .