In a dramatic escalation of attacks on Nigeria’s power infrastructure, Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has condemned the latest brazen assault by the Nigerian Army on the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) substation in Badagry, Lagos.
This attack, which occurred on Friday, March 14, 2025, follows closely on the heels of another brutal strike less than a week earlier, when personnel of the Nigerian Air Force launched a similar raid on the Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IKEDC).
In a statement released by Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser, Strategic Communications and Media Relations to the Minister, Adelabu expressed his outrage over the shocking incident, which involved the forceful abduction of EKEDC staff, their intimidation, and the wanton destruction of critical power facilities.
He labelled the attack not only “unacceptable” but also a direct and perilous threat to Nigeria’s power supply and its economic stability.
“This violent attack on our nation’s power infrastructure and personnel is an alarming signal. It undermines our ongoing efforts to secure a stable and reliable electricity supply for all Nigerians,” Adelabu declared.
He further described the assault as a serious breach of security, stressing that it directly contradicts the role of the military as protectors of national assets, rather than perpetrators of violence.
Adelabu also lashed out at the lack of government response to the previous military assault on Ikeja Electric, suggesting that the silence of the Federal Government had emboldened the military to target the EKEDC.
He urgently called on the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, to step in and rein in security forces before the situation spirals further.
“The Nigerian Army’s actions have escalated to a dangerous level,” Adelabu said, adding, “The NSA must intervene to prevent further destruction. There are peaceful and lawful ways to address such issues—violence should never be the solution, especially in a democratic society.”
The Minister pointed out that electricity infrastructure is vital to Nigeria’s economic development, urging the government to take swift action to protect the country’s energy sector from further attacks.
“Our power facilities are the backbone of the economy, and any attack on them threatens the stability of our businesses, homes, and public services.”
The statement also raised serious concerns about accountability within the armed forces.
Adelabu’s call for a thorough review of the military’s conduct comes as tensions escalate over the repeated targeting of power companies.
“If security operatives are undermining the very infrastructure that fuels our nation, then there is a serious issue of discipline and accountability that needs urgent attention,” he warned.
