Power minister seeks EFCC intervention over vandalism, energy theft

The Nigerian Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has sought the intervention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to combat vandalism and energy theft that are costing the power sector billions of naira yearly. On Tuesday, Tegbe led a delegation from his ministry on a courtesy visit to EFCC's headquarters in Abuja.

At the meeting, Tegbe expressed concern over the damage caused by vandalism, such as theft of manhole covers and other valuables, and the financial losses due to energy theft, where electricity consumers fail to pay their bills, resulting in significant revenue losses. He noted that the ministry lacks statutory powers to prosecute offenders and hence requested the EFCC's assistance in investigating and prosecuting individuals and entities involved in economic crimes affecting the power sector.

The EFCC's spokesman, Dele Oyewale, stated that the minister's call for support was aimed at tackling revenue fraud and economic sabotage, and pledged the commission's collaboration to introduce Fraud Risk Assessment and Control mechanisms across its projects.