University College Hospital, Ibadan, Grapples with IBEDC Over ₦495m Electricity Debt
The University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan is facing a dispute with the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) over an outstanding electricity debt of ₦495 million.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The University College Hospital (UCH), located in Ibadan, finds itself embroiled in a dispute with the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) over an outstanding electricity debt amounting to ₦495 million, accumulated over a three-year period.
This protracted issue has led to IBEDC disconnecting power supply to the hospital on three separate occasions between February and March of 2024, exacerbating the challenges faced by both patients and medical personnel.
Relatives of patients have voiced their concerns, highlighting the necessity of purchasing sachets of water for essential appliance cleaning, underscoring the severity of the situation. Medical staff have echoed these sentiments, expressing worries about the detrimental effects on diagnostic services and the functionality of essential medical equipment.
Prof. Abiodun Otegbayo, the Chief Medical Director of UCH, revealed that the hospital has been forced to acquire over 70 generators as a testament to its ongoing struggle with power supply.
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In response to the crisis, an energy committee has been established to explore sustainable solutions. Dr. Micheal Obaro, the committee chairman, emphasized the committee's efforts to optimize power usage and reduce energy consumption within the hospital premises.
However, IBEDC remains firm in its stance, insisting on the prompt settlement of the outstanding debt. Johnson Tinuoye, IBEDC’s Chief Key Accounts Officer, emphasized the financial strain placed on the distribution company due to the unpaid debt and stressed the importance of UCH resolving its financial obligations to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
Meanwhile, the management of UCH has denied allegations of diverting funds meant for allowances, reaffirming their commitment to resolving outstanding issues with IBEDC.
The situation at UCH is exacerbated by its considerable size, with over 6,000 employees, 1,445 bed spaces, and hosting 13 schools on its premises. The recurrent power outages significantly impact critical healthcare services, posing challenges for patients, their relatives, and medical staff alike.
