Reports indicate that over 100 armed Air Force personnel from the base stormed the IKEDC office, assaulting staff members, including pregnant women, and causing significant property damage. The assault led to at least 15 employees being hospitalized.
The NAF has condemned the actions of its personnel, describing the invasion as "unfortunate." Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Ademuwagun, assured that an investigation is underway and that those responsible will face appropriate sanctions.
The conflict stems from a substantial unpaid electricity bill amounting to approximately ₦4 billion, accumulated over several years. Despite ongoing discussions between IKEDC and the Air Force, the debt remained unsettled, leading to the disconnection of power to the base.
The Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED) has condemned the attack and called on the NAF and federal authorities to ensure justice for the assaulted IKEDC workers. Similarly, the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) criticized the act, labeling it as unlawful and detrimental to Nigeria's investment climate.
In response to the incident, the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has advised its members to stay away from the office until their safety can be assured, condemning the brutality and intimidation faced by IKEDC staff.
The federal government has pledged to address the unpaid bills, aiming to prevent future occurrences and ensure the safety of utility workers.
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