Kaduna DisCo, state government resolve dispute over electricity, tax debts

By Abubakar Yunusa

Kaduna Electric, an electricity distribution company (KAEDC), says its dispute with the state government over electricity debts and tax arrears has been resolved.
The Kaduna Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) had, on August 2, sealed the distribution company’s (DisCo) headquarters over alleged N600 million unpaid taxes.
Zakari Muhammad, head of corporate communications at KADIRS, said the company was sealed after it obtained a court order.
Hours later, the DisCo announced the disconnection of power supply to the government house and other state facilities over a N2.9 billion debt.
Speaking in a statement on Monday, KAEDC said all issues in dispute were resolved following a series of meetings involving high-ranking officials from the company and the state government.
“As a responsible corporate citizen, Kaduna Electric is committed to continuing to pay its taxes and other state levies and dues as appropriate,” the DisCo said.
“Similarly, the Kaduna state government has also pledged to settle the electricity bills of its ministries, departments, and agencies as and when due.”
Umar Abubakar Hashidu, managing director of Kaduna Electric, expressed his gratitude to Uba Sani, governor of Kaduna state; Idris Aminu Idris, managing director of Kaduna State Power Supply Company; Jerry Adams, chairman of KADIRS; and other government officials for their efforts in resolving the issues.
He also appreciated the “tireless” efforts of Aminu Abubakar Suleiman, the board chairman, and the board directors of Kaduna Electric for their support in resolving the impasse.
Kaduna Electric assured the public and its esteemed customers of its unwavering commitment to resolving disputes amicably and providing efficient and reliable services to all its stakeholders.
The company called for the cooperation of everyone as it continues to discharge its duty as the “foremost utility provider”.