Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) Plc has confirmed the suspension of its staff members who are alleged to be involved in the vandalism of its infrastructure in Ikirun, Osun State.
Its Coordinating Head, Corporate Services, Angela Olanrewaju confirmed the suspension order in a statement made available to the newsmen in Ibadan on Wednesday.
She said the disciplinary measure is in line with the company’s zero-tolerance policy towards vandalism, theft of electricity infrastructure and all forms of unethical or criminal conduct.
The affected staff members, according to the statement, would remain suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
“IBEDC will take appropriate internal disciplinary action in line with its policies and applicable.
‘We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards vandalism, theft of electricity infrastructure and all forms of unethical or criminal conduct.
‘Vandalism of electricity infrastructure has become a growing concern in recent times, with significant consequences for electricity supply, customers, communities and the Company.
“IBEDC has consistently raised concerns about the increasing incidence of vandalism and the damage it causes to critical electricity assets, resulting in prolonged outages, service disruptions and avoidable inconvenience to customers.
On the arrest of the suspect, the IBEDC lauded the efforts of the Osun State Police Command, assuring its assistance in ensuring that culprits are brought to book.
‘The Company is fully cooperating with the Nigeria Police Force in the ongoing investigation and supports efforts to ensure a thorough, transparent and impartial process.
Staff members implicated in the matter have been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation. IBEDC will take appropriate internal disciplinary action in line with its policies and applicable regulations.
We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards vandalism, theft of electricity infrastructure and all forms of unethical or criminal conduct.
The Company will continue to support law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.
‘IBEDC also urges customers, community leaders and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities around electricity infrastructure through appropriate channels.
The Company remains committed to transparency, accountability and the protection of critical electricity infrastructure across its franchise area’.