The Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED) has stated that Ikeja Electric will not restore power to the Sam Ethnam Air Force Base in Ikeja, Lagos, until the base clears its outstanding electricity debt of ₦4.3 billion.
The base was disconnected last week due to unpaid bills, which has negatively affected Ikeja Electric’s operations.
However, tensions escalated when Air Force personnel reportedly stormed the headquarters of Ikeja Electric, vandalized equipment, and assaulted staff and journalists.
Reacting to the situation, ANED’s Executive Director for Research and Advocacy, Sunday Oduntan, insisted that power would not be restored unless the debt is settled.
He condemned the attack, stating, “This should not happen in a civilian government. There are better ways to resolve issues.”
Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), also criticized the Air Force’s actions, calling them a “jungle approach” and warning that such behaviour could harm Nigeria’s reputation as an investment destination.
He urged military leaders to caution their personnel against using force in such matters.
Kola Adesina, Chairman of Ikeja Electric, confirmed that the base has owed ₦4.3 billion for over seven years despite multiple discussions.
He explained that Ikeja Electric must collect payments to fund the entire electricity supply chain, including gas suppliers and the Transmission Company of Nigeria.
The unpaid debt has significantly strained the company’s finances.
Negotiations are reportedly ongoing to resolve the issue, but Ikeja Electric remains firm on its stance: no payment, no reconnection.
