By Kelechi Onwujuba
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has pledged a renewed crackdown on individuals involved in vandalising electricity infrastructure and stealing energy resources, reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force's resolve to safeguard critical national assets and enhance the country's energy security.
The assurance was conveyed during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Power, Hon. Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, to the Force Headquarters in Abuja, according to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu.
Leading a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Power, the minister was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mahmud Mamman; the Director of Distribution, Engr. Mustapha Baba-Umara; the Director of Energy Resources, Engr. Kingsley Eneh; and the Minister's Special Assistant, Mr. Martins Olajide.
•Minister of Power, Hon. Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu,, during the visit at the Police Headquarters, Abuja. PHOTO: Nigeria Police Force
The meeting focused on deepening collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and the Ministry of Power to tackle the persistent vandalism of electricity facilities and widespread energy theft, challenges that continue to disrupt power supply and hinder economic growth.
During the discussions, Tegbe called for stronger operational support from the police to secure electricity infrastructure nationwide. He urged the Force to intensify surveillance around critical power installations and ensure that individuals responsible for vandalism and other power-related crimes are arrested and prosecuted.
The minister emphasised that protecting the country's electricity infrastructure is essential for improving the reliability of power supply, attracting investment and accelerating national economic development.
In response, IGP Disu assured the delegation that the Nigeria Police Force would continue to deploy its personnel and resources to protect strategic power assets and combat criminal activities within the energy sector.
He reiterated the Force's commitment to safeguarding critical national infrastructure, strengthening energy security and ensuring that those responsible for crimes against the power sector face the full weight of the law.
The police chief also pledged sustained collaboration with the Ministry of Power and other relevant government institutions to dismantle criminal networks engaged in vandalism and energy theft.
Both parties agreed that closer cooperation between the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Ministry of Power is crucial to curbing economic sabotage, protecting investments in the electricity sector and improving power supply across the country.
