Ilasamaja Residents Fear Burglary Amid Prolonged Blackout

Residents of Ogunbowal Taiwo Adegbola Street in the Ilasamaja area of Lagos have raised alarms over a prolonged blackout that began in late March 2023. They warn that the situation has exposed the community to potential burglaries and economic hardship.

Tayo Adedayo lamented that efforts to resolve the issue have yielded no results, while Adebayo noted that the blackout has severely impacted daily business activities. Elizabeth, a local trader, highlighted the difficulties faced due to the heat and loss of sales, stating that the lack of electricity has made it impossible to sell cold drinks and operate hairdressing and welding businesses.

Residents have written letters and protested to the authorities, including a visit from the Deputy Governor and local government chairman, but no changes have occurred. Babatund Gabriel called for urgent action from the electricity provider, Ikeja Electric, which has been criticized for its lack of communication and failure to restore power.

Kingsley Okoti, head of corporate communications at Ikeja Electric, urged residents to exercise patience as repairs are underway.