“Bypassing Electricity Is Worse Than Kidnapping” – BEDC Warns Nigerians

The Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) has stirred controversy with a strong statement equating electricity theft to a more severe crime. In a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the company declared, “Person wey dey bypass light, worse pass kidnapper. You will soon understand why,” signaling a tough stance against power theft.

The post appears to underscore the gravity of illegal electricity connections and the financial damage they cause to the power sector. BEDC’s message comes amid increasing concern from electricity providers over losses due to tampering with meters and bypassing legitimate billing systems.

In February 2025, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) introduced stricter penalties to curb energy theft, with fines ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦300,000 for offenders. The new sanctions are part of a broader effort to improve power supply stability and ensure fair billing across the country.

BEDC’s comparison between power theft and kidnapping has sparked mixed reactions online, with some calling it exaggerated while others say it highlights the urgent need for accountability in electricity usage.