Residents of the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base in Ikeja, Lagos State, are enduring a 12-day power outage that has severely disrupted daily life and local businesses. The blackout has led to a lack of water supply, as electric pumps remain non-functional, forcing residents to purchase water at inflated prices. Business owners, especially those relying on electricity, are incurring additional costs by operating generators to sustain their operations.
The power outage has been attributed to a disconnection by Ikeja Electric, reportedly due to outstanding debts amounting to millions of naira. Residents claim that the base owes the electricity distribution company a substantial sum, leading to the prolonged blackout.
In response to the situation, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has acknowledged the blackout but attributed it to a technical fault affecting not only the base but also neighboring communities such as Oshodi, Shogunle, and Bolade. NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, stated that efforts are underway to resolve the issue.
The prolonged blackout has raised concerns about the effectiveness of communication and coordination between Ikeja Electric and the Nigerian Air Force. Residents are calling for a swift resolution to restore power and alleviate the hardships caused by the outage.
