The Government of Benue State has strongly rejected the baseless and defamatory allegations contained in the press statement issued by Jos Electricity Distribution Plc (JED Plc) on October 22, 2026. The claims that the State Government sanctioned acts of violence, abduction, or illegal electricity connections have been described as reckless, unfounded, and unacceptable.
In a statement signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon Chief Solomon Iorpev, the Government clarified that JED Plc’s own use of the word “allegedly” confirms that it has no evidence linking the Government to the incident of October 21, 2026. No names, identities, or credible references were provided, and the Government categorically rejects this insinuation.
On the transformer dispute, the Government stated that issues of transformer energization and metering irregularities are regulatory matters that must be addressed before the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and, where necessary, the courts — not through inflammatory press releases. Assertions of abduction, assault, and injuries remain unsubstantiated. The Government does not condone violence and demands that impartial, evidence-based, and transparent investigations be carried out by security operatives. It described the reckless outburst by JED without conclusive investigations as suspicious and amounting to sponsorship by enemies of the state to tarnish the image of the government.
The Government further said JED Plc’s reference to the September 3, 2026 incident is misleading, noting that the company has failed to produce records of its alleged “several communications” with the Government. The State challenged JED Plc to publish such correspondence if it exists. It also insisted that standards apply equally, stating that JED Plc itself acknowledges that interventions must comply with regulatory requirements and safety standards, and that this standard binds JED Plc as firmly as it binds any customer, including public institutions.
The Benue State Government warned that it will not tolerate attempts by any business entity to politicize its operations or malign the integrity of the State. JED Plc was strongly warned to desist from making baseless accusations in the media. The Government demands the immediate withdrawal of the insinuation that the State Government sanctioned violence, retraction of the false claim that the Government engages in meter bypassing or illegal connections, and a formal apology to the Government and the people of Benue State.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, the protection of lives and property, and constructive engagement with stakeholders in the electricity sector. However, it stated that it will not hesitate to pursue legal remedies should JED Plc persist in disseminating falsehoods. The people of Benue State, it concluded, deserve reliable power supply, respectful treatment, and accountability not reckless allegations.
