The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has been plunged into a complete blackout following a disconnection by the Eko Distribution Company (EKEDC) over an unpaid electricity bill amounting to ₦472 million.
The power cut, which began on Tuesday, August 27, has resulted from a financial dispute between the university and the power company. Despite UNILAG recently paying ₦180 million, EKEDC proceeded with the disconnection without prior notice.
In an official statement, the university management expressed concern and asked the campus community for patience and understanding during this period. The institution highlighted that it has been moved from the “Band B” to “Band A” tariff plan, which has nearly doubled its monthly electricity bill from around ₦150 million to nearly ₦300 million as of June.
The university has been struggling to meet these new financial demands, leading to the current crisis. UNILAG management has been in discussions with EKEDC to revert to the more affordable Band B tariff but has yet to reach a resolution.
The recent bill for July, totaling almost ₦472 million, has further strained the university’s finances. In response to the blackout, UNILAG will implement a power rationing schedule to manage the limited power supply and keep the campus functioning.
The university’s management assured that efforts are underway to resolve the issue and restore normal power supply as soon as possible.
