Breaking: President Tinubu Condemns Nigerian Military (Air Force) for Illegal Invasion and Harassment of Ikeja Electric Company Staff

 

Breaking: President Tinubu Condemns Nigerian Military (Air Force) for Illegal Invasion and Harassment of Ikeja Electric Company Staff

Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strongly condemned the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force in Lagos following an illegal invasion of the Ikeja Electric Company by military personnel from Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja, Lagos. The invasion, reportedly carried out in retaliation for the disconnection of electricity to Air Force facilities in Lagos, has sparked widespread outrage.

Speaking to journalists at Aso Rock, President Tinubu criticized the actions of the Air Force personnel, describing them as a direct threat to democracy. He issued a stern warning to the entire military leadership, urging them to restore discipline within their ranks or face a massive restructuring of Nigeria’s military apparatus, including the reorientation of all rank-and-file personnel in the country.

“This lawlessness and abuse of power by those entrusted with the nation’s security cannot and will not be tolerated,” Tinubu stated firmly. “The armed forces must remember their duty is to protect the people, not oppress them. If this indiscipline continues, I will have no choice but to take drastic measures to restore order.”

It is to be noted that this will be the third shake-up of the military apparatus if President Tinubu follows through with his threat. His administration previously carried out a shake-up upon his swearing-in and another following the passing of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja.

Furthermore, the president ordered the Lagos Air Force leadership to produce all officers and personnel involved in the invasion, emphasizing that those responsible must be held accountable for attacking unarmed citizens carrying out their lawful duties. He also directed the Lagos State Government to establish an investigative committee to probe the incident and prosecute those found guilty.

Addressing the broader issues plaguing the country, Tinubu subtly reminded the military of its role in ensuring national stability. “At a time when Nigerians are crying out for relief from hunger, poverty, and insecurity, I expect our armed forces to channel their energy toward securing the nation and upholding justice, not intimidating the very citizens they swore to protect.” His statement has left many speculating about the growing tensions between the civilian government and the military leadership, as economic hardship continues to grip the nation.

Sources within the military—who have chosen to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the matter—suggest that discontent has been brewing following the recent appointment of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Army Staff. Oluyede, who was promoted to Lieutenant General upon his appointment by President Tinubu, has introduced internal restructuring efforts that have reportedly unsettled certain factions within the armed forces. The incident at Ikeja Electric is seen by some as a symptom of a larger power struggle within the military, as frustration over economic instability and internal policies continues to rise.

While the government remains firm in its stance against any form of military interference in governance, many Nigerians—worn down by the crushing weight of poverty, hunger, insecurity, and economic instability—are beginning to wonder if a more decisive mediation and interposition from the armed forces could provide the relief they so desperately seek. The growing sentiment among the populace is one of disillusionment, as hope for meaningful change under the current administration continues to fade.

This is occurring at a time when former military President General Ibrahim Babangida released a tell-all book, providing an intimate look into his military career and controversial leadership. In his book, Babangida reveals details about his role in several successful military coups, including interventions against Generals Yakubu Gowon, Ernest Shonekan, and the former military head of state General Muhammadu Buhari. Babangida also touches on the turbulent period leading to his resignation after nine years as head of state, driven by concerns of a potential coup orchestrated by his trusted ally, General Sani Abacha, and his cohorts. This timely revelation has stirred discussions within political and military circles, fueling further speculation about the state of the military and its role in Nigeria’s future.

When contacted for comment, a spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force declined to respond.

This is a developing story. More updates to follow.

Written by Salvatore Guiliano

(This article is based on reports from multiple sources and does not reflect the personal views of the author. Any interpretations or conclusions drawn from this report are solely those of the readers.)