A Lagos court has sentenced 22-year-old Olarewaju Oluwadayo to nine years in prison without the option of a fine. Olanrewaju’s crime? Stealing N50 million worth of electrical cables belonging to Eko Electricity Distribution Company (Eko Disco), crippling power supply to a significant portion of Victoria Island for days. The verdict, handed down by Magistrate A.M. Paul of the Igbosere Magistrate’s Court sitting at Tinubu, Lagos Island, serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of cable theft on Nigeria’s already fragile power grid.
The case, which unfolded over seven months, exposed the audacity of cable vandals and the crippling impact their actions have on businesses, homes, and the overall economy. According to the Police Counsel, Ishola Samuel, Olanrewaju’s journey to jail began on January 25th, 2024, when he targeted Kofo Abayomi Street, Victoria Island, a high-end neighborhood with a constant demand for electricity. The stolen cables, likely chosen for their high copper content and resale value, were essential for power transmission within the area served by Eko Disco.
The theft plunged residents and businesses into darkness. Homes were left without essential appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners, while businesses grappled with lost productivity and potential spoilage of inventory. Hospitals, already strained by limited resources, faced additional burdens as critical medical equipment went offline. The economic impact went beyond immediate losses. Disruptions in power supply can deter future investment and hinder economic growth.
Eko Disco, the aggrieved party, likely incurred significant financial losses due to the theft. Replacing the stolen cables, repairing any damaged infrastructure, and compensating customers for power outages all add to the company’s burden. The cost of such incidents ultimately gets passed on to consumers through higher electricity tariffs.
The court found Olanrewaju guilty on three counts: willful damage and stealing. The nine-year sentence, while significant, reflects the seriousness of the crime. Cable theft is not just a property offense; it’s an act that disrupts people’s lives, jeopardizes public safety, and hinders economic development. Magistrate Paul’s sentence sends a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated.
However, the Olanrewaju case raises several critical questions. How was he able to carry out such a large-scale operation undetected? Were there accomplices who have yet to be apprehended? More importantly, what can be done to prevent similar incidents in the future?
Experts point to a number of factors that contribute to cable theft. One is the high price of copper, a key component of electrical cables. This creates a lucrative black market for stolen cables, enticing individuals like Olanrewaju to take the risk. Furthermore, security measures around electrical infrastructure are often inadequate, making them easy targets for opportunistic thieves.
To effectively combat cable theft, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. Increased security measures around electrical installations, including improved fencing, lighting, and CCTV cameras, can deter potential thieves. Law enforcement agencies need to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of cable theft cases. Stiffer penalties, like the one handed down to Olanrewaju, can serve as a stronger deterrent.
Collaboration between electricity distribution companies and communities is also crucial. Residents can report suspicious activity around electrical infrastructure, while community watch programs can provide an extra layer of security. Public awareness campaigns can educate people about the dangers of cable theft and the economic consequences it carries.
The Olanrewaju case serves as a cautionary tale. While putting a single perpetrator behind bars is a step in the right direction, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. To truly address the issue of cable theft, a comprehensive strategy that tackles the root causes and strengthens preventive measures is needed. Only then can Nigeria ensure a more stable and reliable power supply for its citizens and businesses.
