By SUNDAY ABBA, Abuja
In response to concerns raised by Federal Capital Territory, FCT, residents following the disruption of water supply arising from the recent disconnection of electricity to the FCT Water Board over unpaid electricity bill, the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, AEDC, Engr Chijioke Okwuokenye, has directed the immediate reconnection of the board to enable the prompt restoration of water services across affected areas of the FCT.
In a statement signed by Omede Odekina, Head, Brand Marketing and Corporate Communications, AEDC, the distribution company, DisCo, clarified that the disconnection of the FCT Water Board followed the accumulation of over one year of outstanding electricity debt by the board despite several notices, engagements, and opportunities provided for regularisation of the account in line with applicable regulatory provisions.
“However, in recognition of the critical importance of water supply to public health and community wellbeing, and following widespread concerns expressed by residents, the Acting MD/CEO of AEDC, Engr Chijioke Okwuokenye, directed the immediate reconnection of electricity supply to the FCT Water Board, in order to enable the prompt restoration of water services across affected areas of the FCT.
“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 reconnection is, however, granted on a conditional basis. AEDC has formally issued the FCT Water Board a two-week timeline within which to present and begin implementing a credible payment plan towards the settlement of its outstanding electricity obligations.
“While AEDC remains open to engagement and collaborative solutions, it must be stated that 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 statement read in part.
AEDC reiterated that disconnection remains a measure of last resort, assuring residents of its continued commitment to transparent engagement, regulatory compliance and the delivery of sustainable electricity services in the Federal Capital Territory.