Adelabu Condemns Attacks on Power Workers, Seeks Action from NSA

Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has decried the increasing attacks on electricity distribution company (DisCo) facilities and employees, urging the National Security Adviser (NSA) to take urgent action.

Following the March 14 attack on the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) substation in Badagry, Adelabu strongly criticized the vandalism, destruction, and abduction of DisCo personnel, calling it a grave threat to national power stability and economic progress.

He appealed to NSA Malam Nuhu Ribadu to direct security agencies to adopt lawful approaches to dispute resolution instead of resorting to violence. 

He stressed that a reliable power supply is crucial to Nigeria’s economic growth.

"The federal government is working hard to improve power sector efficiency, yet these attacks hinder progress," the minister said, noting that uniformed personnel, who are expected to safeguard national infrastructure, are instead involved in its destruction.

Adelabu linked the latest assault to the federal government’s failure to act when the Air Force previously raided Ikeja Electric. 

The attack on EKEDC’s facility, he added, has disrupted services for thousands of electricity consumers.

Calling for an immediate investigation, Adelabu urged the military to ensure justice is served.

In response, PowerUp Nigeria, a non-governmental organization advocating for better energy access, denounced the attacks. 

The group’s Executive Director, Adetayo Adegbemle, warned that such actions threaten critical infrastructure, disrupt services, and put lives at risk.

Adegbemle demanded a thorough and transparent investigation, with public disclosure of findings and legal action against those involved. 

He reaffirmed PowerUp Nigeria’s commitment to partnering with stakeholders to restore power, repair damages, and ensure accountability.