The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has confirmed that intermittent power supply currently being experienced across Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Kwara states and parts of Ibadan is a direct result of a significant drop in electricity allocation from Nigeria’s national grid. The development has led to irregular power hours and prolonged outages in many urban and rural communities within the company’s franchise area.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, IBEDC acknowledged the growing frustration among residents, businesses and institutions affected by the unstable electricity supply. The company apologised for the inconvenience and assured customers that it is engaging relevant power sector stakeholders to address the situation and restore stability as quickly as possible.
According to IBEDC, the reduced electricity supply is due to a decline in the volume of power allocated to it by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO). These agencies are responsible for managing the national grid and determining how much electricity each distribution company receives for onward distribution to consumers.
The distribution company explained that the reduction in grid allocation has limited its ability to supply power consistently across its coverage areas. As a result, customers are experiencing unpredictable supply patterns, with some communities going several hours or even days without electricity, while others receive power only briefly, often late at night.
IBEDC noted that the challenges are not unique to its network but are part of a broader national power supply problem. Recent reports indicate that electricity generation on the national grid has dropped below expected levels, with output falling below 3,500 megawatts on some days. This decline has been linked largely to gas supply constraints affecting thermal power plants, as well as pipeline disruptions and other operational issues.
The company stressed that it does not generate electricity and can only distribute what it receives from the national grid. It, however, reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with TCN and NISO to better understand the fluctuations in grid supply and explore ways to improve allocation to previous levels once generation stabilises.
The impact of the reduced power supply has been widely felt by households and businesses. Many residents across the affected states have taken to social media to express frustration over frequent blackouts and limited electricity hours. Small business owners, particularly those in retail, hospitality and services, say the situation has increased operating costs as they rely more heavily on generators and alternative power sources.
Electricity consumers in Ibadan and neighbouring towns reported that power supply has become increasingly erratic, with some areas receiving electricity for only a few hours daily. In some cases, supply is concentrated late in the evening, making it difficult for businesses and households to plan effectively.
