A disturbing incident unfolded in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, where police officers allegedly assaulted a Jos Electricity Distribution (JED) worker over the disconnection of electricity supply to a mobile police barracks due to an outstanding debt of N112,420,658.65. The officers stormed the JED office in a commando style, descending upon the security guard on duty, Mr. Hassan Ademu, who was brutally beaten and suffered a broken head.
According to reports, the police barracks had accumulated a massive debt of over N112 million, prompting JED to disconnect the electricity supply. In response to the violent attack on their staff, JED has vowed to keep the mobile barracks disconnected until the outstanding debt is settled. The company’s management condemned the police action, describing it as unacceptable.
The incident has raised concerns about the relationship between security agencies and utility providers in Nigeria. JED’s decision to disconnect the electricity supply was based on the barracks’ failure to pay its bills, a move that seems reasonable given the significant debt accumulated. However, the police response was disproportionate and alarming, highlighting the need for a more constructive approach to resolving disputes.
The affected worker, Mr. Ademu, was reportedly left in a critical state after the brutal assault. The police action has sparked outrage, with many calling for accountability and measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the authorities will address this disturbing incident and ensure that justice is served.
