Ibadan – In a case raising concerns about electricity theft, ten traders from Temidire Market in Eleyele, Ibadan, have been arraigned before the Iyaganku Magistrates’ Court. The accusations levied against them involve tampering with and damaging Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) meters, leading to potential fraud.
Details of the Case
The prosecution, represented by ASP Sunday Fatola, presented the defendants – Olalere Alabi (45), Segun Adesokan (42), Rabiu Ishola (42), Kabir Sanusi (45), Sunday Odunlade (48), Ayo Suicide (40), Femi Odogwu (48), Funmilayo Ayodele (34), Oluwakemi Abatan (42), and Josephine Johnson (53) – with a twelve-count charge. These charges included conspiracy, tampering with meters, and damaging meters.
The Allegations
According to Mr. Fatola, the defendants, all traders at Temidire Market, allegedly conspired to tamper with the seals of their standard post-paid meters within their shops. These meters, considered property of IBEDC, are used to track and bill electricity consumption.
Beyond Tampering: Allegations of Fraud
The prosecution further alleged that the defendants’ actions led not only to damage but also facilitated fraud. Mr. Fatola argued that by tampering with the meters, the traders allegedly defrauded IBEDC by underpaying for their electricity consumption.
Specific Meter Numbers
To bolster their case, the prosecution listed specific meter numbers supposedly tampered with by the defendants. These included 62624005773, 62624005781, 62624003398, 62624000915, 060021052119, 62624001129, 62624005732, 62624002648, 62624003380, and 0660021052361.
Legal Framework
Mr. Fatola emphasized that the alleged actions of the defendants violated Sections 441, 451, and 516 of the Criminal Code Laws of Oyo State, 2000. These sections deal with offenses like conspiracy, damaging property, and cheating.
Plea and Bail
Despite the accusations, all ten defendants pled not guilty to the charges. The magistrate, S. I. Babalola, granted them bail in the sum of N300,000 each, with one surety each in like sum. The case has been adjourned until January 28, 2025, for further hearing.
Importance of the Case
This case highlights the issue of electricity theft and its potential impact on electricity distribution companies like IBEDC. It serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible electricity usage and the legal consequences of tampering with meters.
IseyinOnline.NG Perspective
While this case unfolded in Ibadan, it raises awareness relevant to Iseyin residents as well. As a community committed to responsible citizenship, IseyinOnline.NG encourages all residents to utilize electricity legally and ethically. We recommend collaborating with IBEDC to ensure proper meter functioning and avoiding any actions that could lead to similar accusations. IseyinOnline.NG will continue to monitor the development of this case and provide updates as they become available. We hope the legal process will bring clarity and ensure a fair outcome for all parties involved.
