The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) has refuted recent publication by Leadership Newspaper, alleging that it owes Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), saying that it does not owe the DisCo any debt.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Programme Officer, Public Communication
Stakeholder & External Relations Alhassan Mustapha, the Bureau pointed out that the initial newspaper report highlighted that despite substantial budgetary allocations, numerous government entities, including the BPE and the headquarters of the Nigeria Immigration Service, had failed to settle their electricity bills.
According to the BPE, this portrayal is inaccurate and lacks thorough investigation.
Addressing the matter, the Bureau drew the attention of the AEDC and the Leadership newspaper to the fact that it does not owe any outstanding electricity bills, maintaining that on the contrary, it is the AEDC that owes the BPE.”
The BPE further clarified that it adhered to a practice of paying its electricity bills in advance annually, ensuring timely settlement and a clear record of financial obligations. Thus, the assertion that the BPE has neglected its electricity payments is misleading and categorically denied.
Expressing concern over the publication, the BPE emphasized the significance of fact-checking and ensuring accuracy in reporting. The BPE should have been contacted for verification.
Mustapha stated: “To substantiate our position and clarify the inaccuracies presented, we provide evidence of payment and acknowledgments from the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC). This documentation serves to reaffirm our commitment to transparency and accountability in our financial practices.
“We urge both the AEDC and Leadership Newspaper to rectify the information that has been disseminated. The record must be set straight to ensure fairness and accuracy in reporting”, he added.
