BPE Refutes Allegations of Outstanding Electricity Bills
By Patience Ikpeme
Recently startling allegations surfaced regarding overdue electricity bills owed by various government agencies, implicating bodies such as the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE).
However, swift rebuttals have ensued, with the BPE vehemently denying any outstanding electricity debts owed to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC).
The initial report noted that despite substantial budgetary allocations, numerous government entities, including the BPE had purportedly failed to settle their electricity bills.
However, the BPE has contested this portrayal, asserting that it is both inaccurate and lacking in comprehensive investigation.
In response to the matter, the Bureau of Public Enterprises released a statement signed by Amina Tukur Othman, Head, Public Communication declaring that, “the BPE wishes to draw the attention of the AEDC and the Leadership Newspaper to the fact that it does not owe any outstanding electricity bills. On the contrary, it is the AEDC that owes the BPE.”
Furthermore, the BPE clarified its adherence to a practice of paying its electricity bills in advance annually, ensuring punctual settlement and maintaining a transparent record of financial obligations. Consequently, the assertion that the BPE has neglected its electricity payments is deemed misleading and categorically refuted.
Expressing dismay over the publication, the BPE underscored the importance of rigorous fact-checking and the assurance of accuracy in reporting. Notably, the agency emphasized that it should have been contacted for verification before publication.
To substantiate its position and rectify the inaccuracies presented, the BPE has provided evidence of payment and acknowledgments from the AEDC. This documentation serves to reaffirm the agency’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its financial practices.
In light of these developments, the BPE urges both the AEDC and Leadership Newspaper to rectify the disseminated information promptly. Ensuring accuracy and fairness in reporting is imperative to uphold the integrity of public discourse and institutional credibility.
