Eastland Electricity Distribution Limited (EEDL) has raised the alarm over rising cases of meter bypass and energy theft in Ebonyi State, disclosing that more than 300 incidents were recorded in the first quarter of 2026.

The company said the cases, confirmed through inspection reports as well as pictorial and video evidence, were uncovered during monitoring and enforcement operations across the state.

In a statement issued in Abakaliki by its Head of Communications, Mrs. Patience Ezeagu, EEDL attributed the development to widespread illegal practices by some electricity consumers.

Ezeagu said the cases were detected following intensified inspection exercises by the company’s technical and commercial teams as part of efforts to safeguard power infrastructure and enhance service delivery.

She described meter bypass and energy theft as criminal acts with far-reaching consequences for the power sector and law-abiding customers.

According to her, such practices not only sabotage electricity distribution but also damage critical infrastructure and undermine efforts to ensure stable power supply.

“Electricity facilities are shared community assets. When individuals tamper with meters or engage in energy theft, entire communities are exposed to outages, equipment failures and poor service,” she said.

She added that energy theft contributes to transformer overload, frequent power interruptions, rising operational costs and safety risks, including fire outbreaks and electrocution.

Ezeagu also condemned reported cases of attacks on EEDL personnel during inspection operations, warning that such actions would not be tolerated.

She reaffirmed the company’s commitment to improving electricity supply in Ebonyi State, stressing that sustainable progress in the sector depends on responsible energy use.

“No electricity business can thrive where energy theft persists. We are committed to partnering with the government and people of Ebonyi State to deliver reliable power, but this requires collective responsibility,” she added.

The company said customers found culpable had been issued penalty charges in line with extant regulations, noting that further sanctions, including disconnection and possible prosecution, may be applied.

EEDL disclosed that surveillance and enforcement activities have been intensified across the state and urged customers involved in illegal connections to regularise their electricity usage.

It also called on residents, community leaders and other stakeholders to support efforts to curb energy theft by reporting suspicious activities.

The firm reaffirmed its commitment to delivering safe, reliable and efficient electricity while protecting the interests of compliant customers. (The Nation)