In a bid to tackle the growing menace of electrical infrastructure vandalism, Ikeja Electric (IE) has forged an alliance with community leaders, the National Youth Council, security agencies, and local government officials in Epe, Lagos.
The stakeholder engagement forum, held at the Epe Local Government Secretariat, aimed to devise a robust strategy to combat vandalism and enhance power supply in the communities.
According to Emmanuel Iberuche, Ikorodu Business Manager, vandalism has resulted in significant losses for Ikeja Electric. On the Agbowa line alone, 4,700 meters of aluminum conductor and 9 distribution transformers have been vandalized, costing the company over ₦50 million. This destruction not only disrupts power supply but also poses health and safety risks to residents.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from all parties to form a joint task force to monitor and combat vandalism. Community leaders have pledged to establish a community-based surveillance network, while the youth have vowed to be ambassadors of the campaign against vandalism. Ikeja Electric has also urged residents to report suspicious activity around electrical installations and has emphasized the severe punishment for vandalism, including prison terms of up to 10 years or life imprisonment.
The alliance between Ikeja Electric and Epe community leaders marks a significant step towards a more reliable power supply and a safer community. By working together, residents can enjoy a stable power supply, and the economic growth of Epe can be sustained. As Hon. (Princess) Surah Olayemi Animashaun, Chairman of Epe Local Government Area, stated, “The economic growth of Epe is directly tied to a consistent power supply. We will not tolerate criminal acts that undermine our progress.”