EPE News

BREAKING: Epe Plunged Into Darkness Again as Electricity Vandalism Escalates

Published

2 months ago

Dec 9, 2024.

Eko hot blog reports that the recurring incidents of electricity infrastructure vandalization in the Epe Federal Constituency have left residents in a state of despair.

Barely days after the restoration of electricity to parts of the constituency, vandals struck again, targeting cables around Ketu, Epe, and plunging the area back into darkness.

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The increasing cases of vandalism have raised critical questions about the motives and perpetrators behind these destructive acts.

Residents are torn between suspecting opportunistic thieves seeking quick gains from stolen materials and more sinister motives aimed at destabilizing the community.

Hon. Abiona Lateef voiced his concerns about the situation, saying, “These acts of vandalism are a direct attack on the development of our community. It disrupts the lives of our people and hampers our businesses. We cannot continue like this. I call on the government, security agencies, and all stakeholders to act decisively to stop this menace.”

The latest incident follows a pattern that has become alarmingly familiar in Epe. Residents report that vandalism often occurs at night when electricity supply is deliberately switched off. This has led to allegations against power officials, with some community members calling for accountability.

“Why do the NEPA officers always turn off the light at night? If the cables were live, no one would dare tamper with them,” said a frustrated resident. “The authorities must investigate their role in these recurring incidents.”

Adding to the frustration is the perceived lack of consequences for offenders. A community activist lamented the lack of enforcement, saying, “Even when criminals are caught, they are often released without facing the full force of the law. It sends the wrong message and emboldens others.”

The Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government, Hon. Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, expressed her concern and called for unity in tackling the problem. “This is a wake-up call for all of us. We need to strengthen security around electrical installations and hold offenders accountable. We must work hand-in-hand with law enforcement agencies to end this vandalism once and for all,” she said.

Stakeholders in Epe are now calling on the Lagos State Government, media organizations, and law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to safeguard public infrastructure. Many believe that public awareness campaigns, stricter penalties for vandals, and increased security patrols could deter future incidents.

In a statement, a local resident, Mr. Lateef, urged the community to remain vigilant and proactive. “We need to report suspicious activities and protect our infrastructure as a collective responsibility. This is not just about electricity; it’s about the future of Epe.”

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