The Yola Electricity Distribution Company is cautioning its customers against buying meters from any source other than designated purchasing points because doing this enables more meter theft.
In a statement signed by the company’s Communication Officer, Blessing Tunoh indicates that this warning follows a recent alarming rise in meter theft in Adamawa State, with four cases reported within the Jimeta metropolis in January 2025 alone.
Through the swift intervention of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), all four stolen meters have been recovered and three suspects are in custody in connection with the theft.
Two of the stolen meters were recovered from residential apartments rented by tenants in the Jokems area of Jambutu, while another was recovered from a shop owner in Rumdebaru bye-pass all of Yola North Local government.
The prime suspect in another incident at Barracks Road remains at large, while the buyer of the stolen meter who was initially arrested, has been released based on preliminary investigations. However, the case will continue once the suspect is arrested.
Additionally, three individuals have been apprehended for related offences, including unauthorized meter removal, intrusion around power infrastructure and involvement in meter theft.
YEDC strongly advises its valued customers to engage only with authorized personnel at its offices for any meter or infrastructure-related services, as their offices are the only legal and recognized channel for acquiring meters.
Customers are further warned against purchasing meters from unauthorized persons, as anyone found in possession of stolen meters will be treated as an accomplice.
Meter theft is a criminal offence punishable by law, attracting up to three years’ imprisonment or an unprescribed amount of fine.
We urge customers to remain vigilant and report stolen meters to the nearest police station while also logging an official complaint, along with a police extract, at the Customer Care desk of the nearest YEDC office.
