- Apase of Epe links prolonged blackout to political interference and weak policing
- Local security measures to be deployed to protect electricity infrastructure
- Epe council chairmen commended for sustained efforts toward power restoration
As efforts intensify to restore electricity to Epe after months of blackout caused by persistent vandalism, the Apase of Epe Land, Alhaji Akanni Seriki Bamu, has attributed the lingering crisis to political interference, weak law enforcement, and early missteps that undermined what should have been a lasting solution.
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Eko Hot Blog reports that Alhaji Bamu made this known during an exclusive interview, where he stated that the current situation was not unexpected, explaining that
“the electricity problem we are facing today was foreseen from the beginning, because what was meant to be a permanent solution was disrupted by political interests and power tussles at the early stage.”
The respected divisional leader expressed strong dissatisfaction with the handling of vandalism cases by security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police, alleging that “vandals are arrested only to be granted bail shortly after, which discourages genuine efforts to protect public infrastructure.”
He stressed that such actions have weakened the sacrifices being made by leaders across the Epe Division.
According to him, the three council chairmen in the division have remained consistent and committed in the push to restore power, noting that “the chairmen have stood firm and shown uncommon dedication despite the challenges.”
Alhaji Bamu disclosed that new strategies are being adopted to curb further sabotage, revealing that “local security structures will now be deployed to safeguard electricity facilities and prevent continued vandalism.”
He commended the collective leadership efforts of Akogun Wale Raji Anomo, Chairman of Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA; Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, Chairman of Epe Local Government; and Hon. Monsuru Akinloye, Chairman of Eredo LCDA, stating that all stakeholders are fully engaged.
He added that meetings are ongoing with the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources to fast-track restoration, though he admitted that “no definite timeline can be given yet.”
Touching on politics, Alhaji Bamu also spoke on the internal dynamics of the APC in Epe, asserting that he has played “a significant and impactful role in shaping the political direction of the division.”
In a lighter moment, he celebrated the mother of the Epe Local Government Chairman, Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, describing her as “a mother any leader would wish for” and offering prayers for long life and good health.
He also extended warm greetings to the Oloja of Epe Land, HRM Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun.
Alhaji Bamu further expressed appreciation to the Epe Club for its plan to immortalize his name, describing the gesture as “humbling and deeply honourable.”
