By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
LAST WEEK’s assault on staff of the Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IKEDC) by personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, has been strongly condemned by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu.
The personnel had stormed the critical power infrastructure and molested which raised serious concerns about the protection of national assets and the need for peaceful conflict resolution,
Minister Adelabu described the attack describing it as an attack on national progress and the well-being of the people.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday at the headquarters of IKEDC, left several individuals injured and caused significant damage to facilities and equipment.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications, Hon Bolaji Tunji, the Minister denounced the act as unacceptable, emphasising the need to adhere to democratic channels for resolving disputes rather than resorting to self-help.
“The attack on Ikeja Electric, one of our nation’s key power distribution companies, by members of the Nigerian Air Force is deeply concerning and stands completely condemned.
This regrettable incident raises critical questions about restraint, dialogue, and the importance of utilising appropriate democratic processes in settling conflicts,” Adelabu stated.
The Minister reiterated that the power sector serves as the backbone of the nation’s economy and plays a fundamental role in its development.
He stressed that any attack on its infrastructure directly impacts millions of Nigerians who rely on electricity for their homes, hospitals, industries, and even military installations.
“This incident is a setback to our collective efforts to ensure a stable and uninterrupted power supply. The destruction of public infrastructure does not solve grievances; it only exacerbates the challenges we face as a nation.
“We must adopt dialogue, understanding, and the rule of law as the only acceptable means of resolving conflicts,” he added.
Calling for restraint from all parties, Adelabu urged stakeholders to embrace peaceful and democratic means of addressing disputes. He highlighted the existence of judicial, legislative, and regulatory institutions equipped to mediate and adjudicate such matters, ensuring justice without resorting to violence.
Additionally, the Minister called on the Nigerian Air Force to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring that its operations align with democratic principles and respect for civilian welfare and public infrastructure.
“The military is an essential institution in ensuring national peace and security. However, every action taken must be proportional, lawful, and in accordance with the values of democracy,” he emphasised.
Adelabu commended the resilience of IKEDC staff and management, acknowledging their commitment to serving the nation despite provocation.
He assured them of the Federal Ministry of Power’s support in restoring normalcy as swiftly as possible.
He further encouraged stakeholders within the power sector to prioritise collaboration over conflict, stating, “Our sector faces numerous challenges, but they are not insurmountable.
Through unity and dialogue, we can surmount these hurdles and build a sustainable power system that benefits all Nigerians.”
Adelabu further called on Nigerians to remain committed to peace, unity, and national progress.
“Violence and destruction must have no place in our society. We must champion democracy, dialogue, and mutual respect to resolve conflicts and achieve our shared aspirations,” he stated.
