The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) Plc has commended the Osun State Police Command for the arrest of individuals allegedly involved in the vandalism of electricity infrastructure in Ikirun, Osun State.
The company, in a statement signed by its Coordinating Head, Corporate Services, Angela Olanrewaju, on Wednesday, said it was fully cooperating with the Nigeria Police Force in the ongoing investigation.
IBEDC said it supported efforts to ensure that the investigation was conducted in a thorough, transparent and impartial manner, adding that staff members implicated in the matter had been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
The electricity distribution company said it would take appropriate internal disciplinary measures in line with its policies and applicable regulations should the investigation establish wrongdoing.
“IBEDC maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards vandalism, theft of electricity infrastructure and all forms of unethical or criminal conduct,” the statement said.
The company described the vandalism of electricity infrastructure as a growing concern, noting that the development has significant consequences for electricity supply, customers, communities and the company.
According to IBEDC, it has consistently raised concerns over the increasing incidence of vandalism and the damage caused to critical electricity assets, which often results in prolonged outages, service disruptions and avoidable inconvenience to customers.
The company said it would continue to support law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities in ensuring that anyone found culpable was made to face the full weight of the law.
IBEDC also urged customers, community leaders and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities around electricity infrastructure through appropriate channels.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and the protection of critical electricity infrastructure across its franchise area.