The Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) has sought the judiciary’s support in curbing electricity offences in Adamawa.

Blessing Urang, YEDC’s legal team lead, made the request during a courtesy visit to the state chief judge, Hafsat Abdulrahman, on Friday in Yola.

Ms Urang’s requests aimed to enhance the prosecution of electricity offenders and offences in the state.

“Our first request is to designate a special court within the state high court headquarters complex for the trial of electricity offenders and offences, as provided by sections 223(1) and (2) of the Electricity Act 2023.

“The second request is to impose the maximum prescribed punishments for electricity offences, ranging from fines of N100,000 to N1 million.

“Or an option of a jail term of two to six years, as stated in sections 209 to 214 and 220 of the Electricity Act 2023,” Ms Urang said.

Also, she sought that customers’ issues before the court comply with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) regulations and guidelines.

According to her, the request would help to avoid unnecessary litigation and foster a harmonious relationship between the company and its customers.

Responding, Ms Abdulrahman promised that all cases that do not pass through the resolution channel would be struck out in the courts.

She said there was no need for a special court to try electricity offenders but assured expeditious hearing and judgment of any case brought by the company.

The justice advised the company to increase its sensitisation processes for seeking customer redress before approaching the courts.

She said this would strengthen the collaboration between YEDC and the judiciary. 

(NAN)