IKEDC Cuts Power To Nigerian Air Force Base Over Alleged Debt

The Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) has reportedly cut off the power supply to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in Lagos due to alleged outstanding electricity bills, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Power Cut Sparks Security and Operational Concerns

An investigation by NAN revealed that the power disconnection has severely impacted security and operational efficiency at the Air Force base. Reliable sources within the base disclosed that an agreement was in place for NAF to remit N60 million monthly to IKEDC in exchange for 10 to 12 hours of daily electricity supply.

Despite fulfilling its financial commitments, the base has suffered extended outages, leading to concerns over the fairness of IKEDC’s decision.

Impact on Critical Services and Military Operations

A confidential source revealed that the power outage has disrupted essential services, including medical facilities and water supply, affecting both military personnel and their families.

Security Risks Due to Power Outage

A major concern is the storage of high-caliber weapons within the base. With cooling systems down, rising temperatures could pose a significant threat. A source warned, referencing the 2002 Ikeja Cantonment bomb blast, that a similar disaster could have dire consequences for Ikeja and Lagos State at large.

Additionally, the source alleged that NAF had overpaid its electricity bill by N60 million in November and December, yet no refunds or reconciliations had been made by IKEDC.

“This act of withholding power supply unjustly is both unprofessional and detrimental to national security,” the source stated.

Military Families Struggle Amidst Prolonged Blackout

Families of military personnel stationed at the base have been subjected to harsh conditions due to the electricity cut. The source stressed that stable power is essential for the well-being of officers who serve the nation.

“Frontline personnel are demoralized due to the suffering their families are facing. This could escalate tensions and have severe consequences,” the source added.

A 48-hour ultimatum was reportedly issued to IKEDC, demanding the immediate restoration of electricity to prevent further disruptions.

IKEDC Responds to Allegations

Reacting to the controversy, IKEDC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Kingsley Okotie, clarified that NAF is only billed for the electricity supplied under a Band A feeder. He confirmed that while payments had been made, a significant outstanding debt remained.

“Technically, the disconnection is not solely due to financial reasons but involves other operational factors,” Okotie stated.

He highlighted that IKEDC had proposed specific infrastructure upgrades to enhance energy supply but had not been granted access by the base authorities.

“The level of hostility towards our staff within the barracks is concerning. We have experienced harassment and cannot work in such an environment,” he added.

Okotie urged the Air Force leadership to engage in constructive dialogue, emphasizing that all consumed electricity must be paid for.

“Most military barracks in our jurisdiction have installed the required infrastructure, so it is unclear why this base should be an exception,” he noted.

Call for Urgent Resolution

With tensions escalating, stakeholders are calling for a swift resolution to prevent further disruptions. The power cut has not only impacted military operations but has also raised significant security concerns. Unless a resolution is reached soon, the situation could escalate, endangering national security and military readiness.