The Nigerian power sector has recently witnessed a disturbing trend of attacks on its infrastructure and personnel by members of the country’s armed forces. These incidents, involving both the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force, have raised serious concerns about the security and stability of the nation’s power supply, prompting calls for intervention from the highest levels of government. The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has strongly condemned these actions, characterizing them as unacceptable and a direct threat to the nation’s economic well-being. He has specifically called upon the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to address this issue by ensuring that security operatives respect the rule of law and refrain from resorting to violence against power sector facilities and personnel.
The most recent incident involved an attack on the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) substation in Badagry, Lagos State, by Nigerian Army personnel. This attack, which followed a temporary power outage, involved the forceful abduction, intimidation, assault, and brutalization of EKEDC staff, as well as the destruction of the substation’s facilities. This incident occurred shortly after a similar attack on the Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IKEDC) by the Nigerian Air Force. These attacks have not only disrupted power supply to thousands of customers but also caused significant damage to critical infrastructure, undermining the government’s efforts to improve the reliability and efficiency of the power sector.
Minister Adelabu has argued that the silence of the Federal Government following the initial attack on IKEDC emboldened the Nigerian Army to carry out the subsequent attack on EKEDC. He emphasizes the urgent need for the National Security Adviser to intervene and prevent further attacks on power infrastructure. The minister has also called for a thorough investigation into the incidents and for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. Furthermore, he has urged the military high command to implement measures to educate and sensitize their personnel about the importance of protecting critical national infrastructure, emphasizing that the repeated occurrence of such attacks suggests a systemic issue within the armed forces that requires immediate attention.
The minister’s concerns underscore the vital role of the power sector in Nigeria’s economy. Electricity infrastructure is essential for powering businesses, homes, and public institutions, and attacks on these facilities have far-reaching consequences, disrupting economic activities and impacting the lives of ordinary citizens. The Minister of Power stressed that these acts of vandalism and violence sabotage the government’s efforts to improve the power sector and ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply for the country. He maintains that such actions are counterproductive and detrimental to the collective progress the nation is striving to achieve.
Adelabu recognizes the crucial role of the military in national security and the protection of national assets. However, he insists that the military should view the power sector as a partner in progress, not an adversary. He appeals to all Nigerians, including members of the armed forces, to understand the importance of safeguarding power infrastructure, emphasizing that these facilities are vital to the nation’s collective prosperity and that their destruction harms everyone. The minister has reiterated the commitment of the power ministry to collaborate with all stakeholders to protect power infrastructure and ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply for all Nigerians.
The incidents highlight a concerning disconnect between the military and other sectors crucial to national development. While the military’s role in safeguarding the nation is paramount, its actions must be aligned with the broader goals of national progress. The attacks on power infrastructure demonstrate a need for greater inter-agency collaboration and communication, as well as a renewed emphasis on respect for the rule of law within the armed forces. Addressing this issue requires a multi-pronged approach that includes thorough investigations, accountability for perpetrators, enhanced training and sensitization for military personnel, and improved communication between the military and other stakeholders, including the power sector. The ultimate goal is to foster a collaborative environment where all sectors work together to contribute to the nation’s development and prosperity.
