Army vs. Power Companies: Time To End The Violence, By Yahaya Kana Ismaila
God knows the Nigerian electricity distribution companies have become so notorious, obnoxious, and downright criminal in most of their dealings that many consumers feel like crushing them like an irritant cockroach. I know their pungent corruption manifests in various forms—from insisting on being paid for installing transformers and other appliances bought by consumers to threatening to plunge whole communities into darkness unless certain amounts are paid.
The system is so riddled with malpractices that, in many parts of the country, Nigerians hardly know how much they are truly paying for power that’s most times, not available, especially where that infamous estimated billing system still reigns supreme. “Paying for darkness” as infamously declared by a famous commentator, often leaves us teetering on the edge of outrage, sometimes even with the urge to take drastic measures.
Yet, nothing excuses the recent wave of attacks on the outlets of the Eko Distribution Company by members of the Nigerian armed forces. Disturbing videos show soldiers vandalising equipment and even causing bodily harm to power company workers. This violent response is as troubling as it is dangerous. While frustrations with a corrupt power sector are well-founded, resorting to assault on individuals and property is not the answer. Violence only deepens the chasm between the people and the institutions meant to serve them.
It is time we acknowledge that the Nigerian system is a product of our collective failure. Highly corrupt officials of the power companies are chosen from our midst, and though we can point fingers at the power companies, it is also true that there are diligent workers in their ranks who carry out their responsibilities with honesty. In this sense, power officials are akin to members of the armed forces, where while some are exemplary in their service many times, even paying with their lives, many unfortunately fall short. The solution, then, is not to condemn an entire sector by the misdeeds of a few but rather to analyse the problem and possibly overhaul the system entirely.
Let’s face it: the law clearly states that, army or not, everyone must pay for power; well, I wonder if the president pays. In any case, if there are grievances, members of the armed forces should channel them through proper authorities rather than through direct assault. I will quite agree with and support any move to exempt soldiers—especially those living in army barracks—from paying for power. Their work is gruelling enough without having to add the burden of power charges to it. I mean, after a long day of serving this nation, our soldiers deserve a night without the anxiety of potential power outages triggered by disputed power bills. It is quite disheartening to hear that deductions meant for power payments are allegedly being taken from soldiers’ salaries without ever reaching the intended recipients, leaving them in a state of perpetual uncertainty. This is nothing but pure evil. Why take the pay of soldiers if you won’t remit it to the power companies?
The above, notwithstanding, attacking power distribution outlets is never a viable solution, if anything, it should spur the soldiers to demand accountability from higher ups. We all know how quickly bad examples spread in Nigeria. If this trend of violent reprisal continues unchecked, it may soon become the norm, and every electricity office could become a prime target for attacks. The thought of an all-out clash between soldiers and power company workers is a dangerous one—a descent into chaos that none of us can afford. Our nation is already grappling with numerous challenges; inciting more violence will only worsen our plight.
While many of us understand the deep-seated frustration with power companies, we must remember that Nigeria has not yet become a lawless banana republic. Even though the big men often flout the rules, we still have laws in this country. Imagine if power workers, faced with a barrage of attacks from soldiers, decide to stand their ground rather than flee—aren’t we then paving the way for anarchy and the potential for fatal outcomes? The stakes are high, and the repercussions of unchecked violence could be catastrophic.
Now more than ever, there is a pressing need for restraint and responsible action. Nigeria is fast tilting towards a state of lawlessness, where even minor incidents can ignite a crisis beyond our control. We must not allow anger and frustration to escalate into a full-blown war of attrition between soldiers and power company employees. The armed forces have a proud tradition of discipline and this is the moment for our military to show that discipline and respect for the law, even when dealing with systemic corruption.
This then, is an urgent call for the Army authorities to step in and cut-off this extra-legal measures or resort to self help. But we all know that it goes beyond just the Army restraining soldiers. We must commit to implementing comprehensive reforms in the power sector. This can never be overemphasised. Transparent billing practices including a ban on estimated billing, strict accountability for corrupt officials, and a fair pricing mechanism are the need of the hour. It is high time that power companies are held accountable for their misdeeds through the proper channels, and that any grievances—whether from consumers or soldiers—are addressed through legal and administrative means rather than violent outbursts.
For too long, the lack of effective oversight has allowed corruption to fester unchecked. The unfortunate attacks of power outlets in Lagos, while born out of frustration, only reiterate the critical need for reform and robust oversight. A reformed system would ensure that power distribution is fair, transparent, and free from the prevailing pervasive influence of corruption. Such a system would also protect the rights of workers in both the power companies and the military, ensuring that all Nigerians can live without the constant fear of being caught in the crossfire of institutional abuse.
Let me conclude by reiterating that, while the current state of Nigeria’s power distribution companies fuels understandable anger, violence is not the answer. Instead, we must demand accountability and pursue our rights without let or doubt. The armed forces, with their tradition of discipline, must lead by example—channelling their grievances through proper channels rather than through destructive actions. I want to also call on all Nigerians to support meaningful change: to stand up for justice and to demand a power sector that truly serves the people. We always complain about political will, but we all know that without determined collective action, we can’t hope to secure a future free from corruption and violence, where every citizen enjoys the fruits of honest and efficient service.
Ultimately, this is not just a battle between the army and power companies—it is a fight for the soul of our nation considering the importance of power to Nigeria’s so-called avowed drive towards economic improvement. Indeed, this is a fight for a just, accountable, and transparent system that respects both the law and the dignity of every Nigerian. Before the faceoff between the army and power companies spill into the society, let us act now, be part of this transformation and work together to ensure that our country moves towards a brighter, more stable future.
Yahaya writes from Kana of Nassarawa LGA in Nasarawa state and can be reached on: kanaismail@yahoo.com
