The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has strongly condemned Thursday’s attack on the Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) headquarters by Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel, warning that such actions jeopardise efforts to achieve a stable and uninterrupted power supply in Nigeria.
The attack, reportedly over the disconnection of electricity at the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base in Ikeja, Lagos, left several people injured and caused significant damage to IKEDC’s facilities and equipment.
Adelabu, in a statement released on Friday by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications, Bolaji Tunji, described the incident as “unfortunate” and a direct assault on national development.
Adelabu expressed deep concern over the invasion, stressing that democratic societies provide established channels for dispute resolution, making violence and destruction unacceptable means of addressing grievances.
“This unfortunate incident has raised serious questions about the need for restraint, dialogue, and the use of appropriate democratic channels in resolving conflicts,” he stated.
He warned that an attack on the power sector’s infrastructure was an attack on the progress and well-being of Nigerians, adding that IKEDC plays a critical role in supplying electricity to millions of citizens, including essential institutions like hospitals, schools, industries, and even military installations.
The minister lamented that the incident had disrupted ongoing efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s power supply, describing it as a major setback to the government’s objectives.
“This incident has set back our efforts to achieve stable and uninterrupted power supply, and it is a blow to the collective aspirations of our nation,” he said.
He further asserted that no justification existed for the destruction of public infrastructure, warning that such actions only worsen existing challenges.
“We must always remember that violence and destruction are not the answer to our problems.
“ Instead, we must embrace dialogue, understanding, and the rule of law as the only viable means of resolving conflicts.”
Prior to the attack, IKEDC had disconnected power supply to the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base over a N4 billion debt.
However, the company later announced that it had reached an agreement with the NAF on settling the outstanding sum.
In response, Adelabu urged the military to uphold professionalism and ensure that its actions align with democratic principles and the rule of law.
“The military is a vital institution in Nigeria, and its role in maintaining peace and security cannot be overstated.
However, it is equally important that all actions taken by our armed forces are proportionate, targeted, and in line with the principles of democracy,” he said.
Despite the provocation, Adelabu commended the resilience of IKEDC’s staff and management, promising the ministry’s support in restoring normalcy.
“Your comportment in the face of this adversity is a testament to your dedication to serving the Nigerian people. The Ministry of Power stands ready to support you in any way possible to ensure that normalcy is restored as quickly as possible,” he said.
He called on all stakeholders in the power sector to prioritise collaboration over conflict, urging Nigerians to reject violence and embrace peaceful dialogue to build a more stable and prosperous nation.
“The challenges we face in the power sector are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With a shared commitment to the common good, we can overcome them,” Adelabu added.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving a stable power supply, urging Nigerians to uphold peace, unity, and respect for institutions that drive national progress.
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