The University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan has finally seen the light after three weeks of blackout, thanks to the reconnection by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).
The hospital had been disconnected due to outstanding electricity bills.
On Thursday, IBEDC’s spokesperson, Busolami Tunwase, confirmed to Channels Television that power has been restored to UCH following a partial payment of the debt, which was a little over 10% of the total amount due.
A payment plan has been established for the remaining balance.
The disconnection, which occurred on March 19th over an unpaid bill of N495 million, had caused significant disruptions to hospital operations, affecting both staff and patients.
The lack of electricity forced the hospital to consider reducing working hours, with night shifts being suspended since April 3rd.
The situation was dire, as described by a UCH doctor, who recounted the difficulties of providing medical care in such conditions. The hospital’s unions had taken a firm stance on the issue, demanding the restoration of power.
Negotiations between UCH and IBEDC led to a compromise, with the hospital initially being asked to pay at least N250 million upfront.
The agreement reached has allowed for the reconnection of electricity, with the expectation that UCH will fulfill its commitment to settle the remaining debt as per the agreed plan.
