Tensions escalated in Lagos Thursday as men in military uniforms invaded the headquarters of Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) over what they described as deliberate attempt to plunge the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base and other military installations into total blackout.

The power outage, which lasted over 15 days has reportedly paralysed operations at both the Nigerian Army’s 9 Brigade, Ikeja Cantonment and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Logistics Command in Ikeja, raising serious security concerns.

Sources within the base stated that personnel and residents fear a potential disaster akin to the deadly 2002 Ikeja Cantonment explosions.

The prolonged blackout has left critical military equipment and high-caliber ammunition storage facilities without power, significantly increasing the risk of overheating and accidental detonation.

A senior military official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed grave concerns. 

“The 2002 disaster on January 27 led to a series of devastating explosions, killing hundreds and displacing thousands. Now, with over 15 days of blackout at the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, many fear history could repeat itself.”

Another source close to the base confirmed that the lack of power has severely disrupted cooling systems essential for storing sensitive weaponry such as bombs and rockets.

“The rising temperature in these storage areas is dangerous. Ammunition depots require a controlled environment, and without proper cooling, the risk of spontaneous detonation increases significantly,” the source warned.

A senior military officer lamented the continued power crisis, stating that despite the base’s efforts to maintain payment commitments, power supply has remained erratic. 

“We have been having issues with Ikeja Electricity for over two years. Despite paying our bills, we experience frequent blackouts. This base is a critical military installation, and we cannot afford to gamble with security,” he said.

According to insider reports, the Air Force Base had agreed to a monthly electricity payment of N60 million to ensure stable power supply. 

However, despite this agreement, the base has been receiving only 10 to 12 hours of electricity daily.

“In November 2024, our bill was N48.4 million, yet we paid N60 million. Still, power supply remains unreliable. It is unacceptable that a strategic military base is being subjected to such neglect,” the source added.

Beyond ammunition storage concerns, other critical services such as medical facilities and water supply have also been significantly affected, causing further distress among personnel and nearby communities.

Security experts have strongly condemned the situation, warning of dire consequences if urgent action is not taken. 

Retired military engineer, Oguntade Ajayi, emphasised the dangers of prolonged power outages at ammunition depots.

“Ammunition storage facilities must be kept at controlled temperatures. Without proper cooling, the risk of unplanned detonation due to heat buildup is dangerously high. This is a serious national security issue,” he said.

Similarly, security analyst Dr. Charles Onah criticised the government and power distribution authorities for failing to prioritise military installations.

“Military bases should never experience blackouts. The government and power distribution companies must recognize the security implications of their actions. The Ikeja explosion of 2002 was a national tragedy; we cannot afford another disaster of that magnitude,” he said.

Personnel and security experts are urging the Nigerian government and Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company to immediately restore stable power to the base to avert a looming catastrophe. 

The Air Force authorities have reportedly engaged in diplomatic discussions with IKEDC to resolve the crisis, but frustrations are mounting as no resolution has been reached.

“Ikeja Electricity is a service organisation expected to uphold a high level of responsibility to the public. Unfortunately, their conduct falls short of what is expected from a company responsible for national security-sensitive installations,” a military official stated.