Power minister seeks EFCC intervention over vandalism, energy theft

The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has requested the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to assist in combating vandalism and energy theft, which he claims are causing significant financial losses to the power sector. During a courtesy visit to the EFCC's headquarters in Abuja, Tegbe, accompanied by his delegation, sought the commission's support in investigating and prosecuting individuals and entities involved in these economic crimes.

Tegbe highlighted the issue of vandalism, noting that people were stealing manhole covers and other valuables, which impacts power towers. He also mentioned that some electricity consumers are failing to pay for the power they receive, resulting in substantial revenue losses for the sector. These issues, according to Tegbe, are undermining the power sector and require urgent intervention.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) chairman, Ola Olukoyede, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, describing vandalism and energy theft as acts of economic sabotage. He pledged the commission's collaboration with the ministry to combat these crimes and improve electricity supply. Olukoyede emphasized the commission's readiness to implement Fraud Risk Assessment and Control mechanisms across its projects and to monitor ongoing projects to prevent fraud.