Air Force personnel allegedly invade Lagos power infrastructure over unpaid bills

Personnel from the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base in Bolade, Oshodi, reportedly stormed critical power infrastructure premises in Lagos State, engaging in rough handling and forcibly taking individuals away amidst a dispute over unpaid electricity bills amounting to billions of naira.

According to sources familiar with the incident, the air force personnel allegedly carried out the invasion in retaliation for disconnections made at their base due to outstanding debts.

Eyewitnesses recounted that the unnamed air force personnel, whose identities were withheld, targeted facilities including the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) station and Eko Distribution Company (Disco) Mushin Business Unit in Isolo, as well as the Ikeja Electric’s Oshodi Business Unit on Okota Road.

Reports indicated that operators at the TCN station were overwhelmed during the attack, resulting in the removal of power supply to certain feeders.

At Ikeja Electric’s Oshodi Business Unit, employees were reportedly assaulted and taken to the barracks, where they were allegedly subjected to physical abuse.

The incident has raised concerns over security and the rule of law, with stakeholders calling for a thorough investigation into the actions of the air force personnel and the circumstances surrounding the unpaid electricity bills dispute.

Authorities from both the military and electricity distribution companies have yet to issue official statements regarding the incident.

The affected power infrastructure facilities are expected to assess the damage caused and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of their personnel and operations.

The Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, known for its strategic importance in military operations, has not commented on the allegations made against its personnel.