Agents from the Department of State Services (DSS) in Asaba, Delta State, have apprehended Aliu Junior Fayemi for allegedly diverting and selling meters intended for installation under the Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP).
The suspect has been transferred to the police for further investigation and legal action, as he reportedly sold four meter units to various customers in Asaba instead of installing them for the designated BEDC clients under the complimentary DISREP metering initiative.
During questioning, investigators found that Fayemi allegedly sold a single-phase meter for ₦145,000 and a three-phase meter for ₦250,000, actions that contradict the program's goal of providing free meters to customers to help bridge the metering gap in Nigeria's electricity sector.
Gboyega Agunlejika, the Regional Head of BEDC in Asaba, confirmed the arrest and stated that all the diverted meters have been retrieved from the purchasers.
He mentioned that the next step is to ensure that all individuals involved in the illegal dealings are prosecuted.
Agunlejika also noted that the case has been forwarded to the police for further investigation, potential arraignment, and prosecution in line with existing laws.
Meanwhile, Engr. Jonathan Lawani, the Acting MD/CEO of BEDC, urged customers to avoid engaging private individuals for meter procurement under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme. He emphasized that MAP is the only program where customers are required to pay for meters, and that applications and payments should be made online via the BEDC website.
"Customers should refrain from paying any individual for meter procurement," Lawani added, clarifying that all other schemes, including the Meter Asset Fund (MAF) and DISREP metering schemes, are free of charge, and no customer should apply or pay for DISREP meters, including installation.
He warned that anyone caught diverting and selling these meters will face severe legal consequences.
Industry experts believe that the arrest of Aliu Fayemi will help mitigate the negative public perception regarding BEDC Electricity Plc staff's involvement in the illegal diversion and sale of meters.
This incident is also viewed as a strong indication of commitment to supporting the federal government's efforts to eliminate estimated billing and close the metering gap in the power sector, ensuring that meters allocated under the program reach the rightful customers without compromise.
(Source: P.M News)
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