The House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee investigating Nigeria’s power sector reforms and expenditure from 2007 to 2024 has summoned the Managing Directors of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company and Jos Electricity Distribution Company over their absence at a public hearing.
Chairman of the committee, Mr. Al-Mustapha Ibrahim, expressed displeasure at the development, stating that the absence of the DisCos’ chief executives undermined the objective of the investigation into the nation’s persistent electricity challenges.
Mr. Ibrahim said the committee was set up to address lingering power sector problems that have continued to hinder national development despite over a decade of privatisation.
He stressed that progress could not be made without direct engagement with the Managing Directors.
According to him, the committee expects the DisCos’ MDs to explain their operations, investments, infrastructure development, and how government intervention funds in the power sector have been utilised.
He noted that while generation and transmission issues had been examined in earlier sessions, distribution companies remained critical stakeholders whose performance directly impacts electricity supply to consumers.
Officials who appeared on behalf of the two DisCos failed to give satisfactory reasons for the absence of their Managing Directors and could not present formal letters authorising their representation.
The committee unanimously rejected their appearance.
Following deliberations, a motion moved by committee member, Mr. Mohammed Olaide, was adopted, adjourning the hearing to February 5.
The DisCos were directed to reappear with their Managing Directors to defend their submissions and provide detailed explanations on investments, infrastructure upgrades, and use of intervention funds.