The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has called on the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to intervene in the increasing assaults on electricity distribution company (DisCo) facilities and personnel.
Reacting to the recent attack on the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) substation in Badagry on March 14, Adelabu condemned the vandalism, destruction, and abduction of workers.
He described the incident as not only unacceptable but also a serious threat to Nigeria’s electricity supply and economic stability.
The minister urged the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, to take action by instructing security agencies to address such issues through lawful means, especially in a democratic setting.
He emphasized that power infrastructure is essential to Nigeria’s economy and development.
“Targeting electricity facilities and workers undermines federal efforts to ensure a stable and reliable power supply,” Adelabu stated.
He expressed concern over the repeated attacks by uniformed personnel, who should be protecting national assets rather than endangering them.
According to the minister, the Nigerian Army’s attack on EKEDC facilities was emboldened by the federal government’s silence over a previous invasion of Ikeja Electric by the Air Force.
The damage to EKEDC’s substation has led to power outages, affecting thousands of consumers.
He urged the military to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
Similarly, PowerUp Nigeria, an advocacy group for sustainable energy, condemned the assaults on electricity providers.
The organization’s Executive Director, Adetayo Adegbemle, described the attacks as reckless, stressing that they have disrupted essential services and endangered lives.
Adegbemle called for an independent investigation into the incidents, with findings made public and those responsible prosecuted.
He reaffirmed PowerUp Nigeria’s commitment to collaborating with the government, private sector, and civil society to strengthen the country’s energy sector.