For the resistances in parallel the equivalent resistance is less than smallest resistance in combination of resistors hence power dissipation is maximum in this case.

For the resistances in series the equivalent resistance is addition of resistors hence power dissipation is minimum in this case.

Hence, to avoid maximum power dissipation in parallel circuit R must be equal to zero so the equivalent of parallel resistors will be

$R_{p}=\frac{(0)(8)}{8+0}=0 \Omega$

since, $R_{p}=0 \Omega$ voltage across it is zero.

Therefore power dissipated in $2 \Omega$ resistor is

$P=\frac{V^{2}}{R}$

$P=\frac{(12)^{2}}{2}$

$P=72 W$