*Gives 2-week deadline for debt payment
The Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) has reconnected power to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Water Board following public complaints about water shortages.
It, however, issued a two-week deadline for the board to submit and implement a credible plan to clear its outstanding electricity debt.
The decision was conveyed in a statement signed by AEDC’s Head of Brand Marketing and Corporate Communications, Omede Odekina.
The power company said the reconnection was necessary to restore water services across affected areas of the FCT while underscoring that failure to comply with the repayment terms could result in another disconnection.
“AEDC acknowledges the concerns and spirited appeals from residents of the Federal Capital Territory following the disruption to water supply arising from the recent disconnection of electricity to the FCT Water Board over unpaid electricity bills,” the statement read.
The company explained that the board had accumulated more than a year of unpaid electricity bills despite repeated notices and engagement to regularise the account. Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Chijioke Okwuokenye, directed the immediate reconnection in recognition of the critical role of water supply for public health and community wellbeing.
“This decision underscores AEDC’s commitment to the welfare of the communities it serves and reflects the company’s belief that access to essential services must be safeguarded, particularly where public health and safety are concerned,” the statement added.
AEDC noted that the reconnection was conditional, granting the water board two weeks to present and begin implementing a realistic repayment plan. “Failure to meet this obligation within the stipulated period will regrettably leave the company with no alternative but to reapply service disconnection, in accordance with regulatory guidelines,” the firm warned.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns over debts owed to electricity distribution companies by government agencies, which operators say affect liquidity and service delivery. Water production and distribution are among the most energy-intensive public utilities, making them particularly vulnerable to power disruptions when bills remain unpaid.
Residents had previously reported widespread water shortages following the disconnection, prompting civil society groups and community leaders to call for urgent interventions. The latest measure by AEDC temporarily restores supply while the Water Board’s compliance with the repayment conditions will determine whether service remains uninterrupted.