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By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Nigeria Army Emblem and Eko Distribution company |
The Nigerian Army’s 81 Division has refuted claims that its personnel invaded an Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) substation in Badagry following a dispute at Topo Barracks.
Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, the Division’s spokesperson, dismissed the allegations in a statement released on Wednesday in Lagos. He stated that the report stemmed from an interview aired by Arise TV featuring the Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors on Tuesday.
Ayeni emphasized that the report misrepresented the facts and appeared intended to deceive the public.
“The footage repeatedly shown during the Arise TV interview depicted a completely unrelated incident. The soldiers featured were not Nigerian Army personnel,” Ayeni clarified.
He noted that the video falsely portrayed a hostile clash between the Army and EKEDC, creating a distorted narrative.
Ayeni explained that Badagry, including Topo Barracks, had endured a power blackout for over a month before the incident. Despite repeated assurances from EKEDC, residents, including barracks occupants, remained without electricity.
Power was eventually restored on Friday, March 14, around 12:30 a.m. However, a sudden power surge triggered a fire outbreak at an EKEDC-managed facility within the barracks.
The fire caused panic, but soldiers on duty quickly collaborated with EKEDC technicians to contain the situation. Ayeni confirmed that EKEDC staff were granted access to the barracks by 1:00 a.m. and left by 2:30 a.m. after resolving the issue.
While a minor misunderstanding arose between a soldier and an EKEDC staff member, it was resolved amicably and promptly. Ayeni stressed that no invasion occurred, and no EKEDC staff were detained or abducted.
The Commanding Officer of the barracks, who maintains a strong working relationship with EKEDC’s Badagry leadership, immediately set up a Board of Inquiry to investigate the fire incident and ensure full transparency.
“The Nigerian Army, as a disciplined institution, upholds human rights and operates within the law,” Ayeni stated. He reiterated that any misconduct against civilians would never be condoned.
The Army remains dedicated to fostering positive relations with host communities and all stakeholders.
(VANGURED)