The Yola Electricity Distribution Company, YEDC, has cautioned its customers against buying meters from sources outside designated purchasing points.

The company said on Monday that purchasing meters from unauthorized sellers would encourage an already rising problem of meter theft.

In a statement signed by the company’s communication officer, Blessing Tunoh, the company said its warning was prompted by a recent alarming rise in meter theft in Adamawa State, with four cases reported within the Jimeta metropolis in Yola North Local Government Area in January 2025 alone.

The company added, however, that through the intervention of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, all four stolen meters have been recovered and three suspects arrested over the theft.

“Two of the stolen meters were recovered from residential apartments rented by tenants in the Jokems area of Jambutu, while another was recovered from a shop owner in Rumdebaru bye-pass, all in Yola North,” the company explained.

It added that the prime suspect in another incident at Barracks Road remains at large, while the buyer of the stolen meter, who was initially arrested, has been released based on preliminary investigations.

The company disclosed further that three individuals had been apprehended for related offenses, including unauthorized meter removal.

“YEDC strongly advises its valued customers to engage only with authorised personnel at its offices for any meter or infrastructure-related services, as their offices are the only legal and recognised channel for acquiring meters.

“Customers are further warned against purchasing meters from unauthorised persons, as anyone found in possession of stolen meters will be treated as an accomplice,” the company said.

It reminded members of the public that meter theft is a criminal offense attracting up to three years’ imprisonment.