Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has severed the power supply to the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in Akoka due to outstanding electricity bills. The university management disclosed this development in a statement released on Wednesday.
UNILAG has been facing increasing challenges due to escalating electricity costs. These difficulties were exacerbated when EKEDC reclassified the university’s tariff from “Band B” to “Band A,” resulting in a significant increase in monthly electricity expenses.
Previously, UNILAG’s electricity bills ranged between N150 million and N180 million per month. However, under the new “Band A” tariff, the bill for June surged to nearly N300 million, representing a 100% rise that the institution is struggling to accommodate.
In related news, Eko DisCo has expressed concerns over MDAs’ N144 billion electricity debt. The university recently received N2.9 billion from NELFUND as part of student loan support. Additionally, UNILAG and LASUSTECH have formed a partnership for mutual development.
The university’s management expressed regret over the ongoing blackout that began on Tuesday. Despite ongoing discussions with EKEDC and a recent payment of N180 million on August 20, the university was unexpectedly disconnected on August 27 without prior warning.
“Our meeting just two weeks ago was followed by an astonishing bill of nearly N472 million for July, which has further intensified our debt. Despite fulfilling our commitment with a payment of N180 million on August 20, EKEDC disconnected us without any notice and has refused to restore power,” the statement indicated.
The management assured the university community that efforts to address the situation with EKEDC are underway. They urged calm and announced that electricity on campus would be rationed until further notice.