There was pandemonium at the headquarters of Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) in Lagos on Thursday morning as armed military personnel stormed the premises, allegedly in response to the disconnection of power supply to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in the state.
Eyewitnesses reported that the military officers, dressed in full uniform, arrived at the company’s head office opposite MITV in Ikeja at about 7:40 a.m., causing a commotion among workers and customers present at the facility. The group, reportedly led by a female officer, also extended their operation to the Oshodi business unit of the electricity company.
Sources within the NAF base revealed that the dispute arose from an electricity supply agreement between the military institution and IKEDC. The Air Force base had allegedly committed to remitting N60 million monthly in exchange for a guaranteed daily power supply of 10 to 12 hours. However, it remains unclear whether the disconnection was due to non-payment or a breach of agreement by either party.
Investigations indicate that the power outage at the base raised significant concerns over security and operational efficiency, prompting what appeared to be a retaliatory action by the military officers. Upon arrival at the electricity company’s premises, the armed personnel allegedly resorted to physical assault, targeting workers and other individuals present at the office. Reports from the scene indicated that employees were manhandled, with some sustaining injuries as they scrambled for safety.
The Nigeria Police Force was eventually called in to restore order. However, sources claim that despite police intervention, the military personnel remained defiant, refusing to leave the premises. The situation created tension in the area, with many bystanders expressing shock over the violent turn of events.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Nigerian Air Force or Ikeja Electric regarding the incident. Efforts to contact both parties for clarification were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, the police have yet to confirm whether any arrests have been made or if an investigation has been launched into the matter.
This incident highlights the growing concerns over conflicts between security agencies and public service providers, especially concerning utility payments and service delivery. Many Nigerians have called for a resolution mechanism to prevent such clashes, emphasizing the need for lawful engagement in addressing disputes rather than resorting to force.
More details will emerge as the situation unfolds.
