‘Vandals are thorns in our flesh’ — Enugu DisCos decries attacks on facilities

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has condemned the high rate of vandalism on its facilities within its coverage areas. 

Speaking at a press briefing, Emeka Ezeh, the EEDC spokesperson, on Wednesday said the attacks have been impacting negatively on the service to customers and crippling the company’s activities.

Ezeh described the vandals as “thorns in the flesh” of the company and appealed for vigilance and continued support by customers.

NAN reports that 15 suspects were arrested in the states where the company supplies power to, between January and February 2023. 

He appreciated the various vigilante groups within the area, for their support in nabbing the vandals.

“In Abia State, the duo of Ogbu Igwo and Daniel Olugu were arrested for vandalising XLPE of Agborji distribution substation and some towers belonging to EEDC,” Ezeh was quoted by NAN as saying.  

“Chibuzo Egbuta was arrested for vandalising aluminum conductors at Ozu-Item community.  

“Also, at Onuiyangan Community in Bende Local Government Area, Chinaemerem Azubuike was arrested while vandalising aluminum conductors.

“In Anambra State, one Amadi Okey, was arrested while vandalising steel copper wire, and 26-year-old Onyekachukwu Ifennadolu was arrested for vandalising Aluminum Bare Conductor at Umueri Ezumeri village Oraifite, along Onitsha-Owerri Road.

“Likewise, 27-year-old Chidiebere Agbalusi was arrested at Oraifite in possession of vandalised aluminum cable and a cutter, while the duo of Usulu Solomon and Nwafo Emeka were arrested for vandalising about 16 spans of bare conductor wire.

“They mentioned one Ejike Nwoba, who was also arrested, as the receiver of the vandalised items,” he said.

The EEDC spokesman said three youths were arrested at Ndeabor in Aninri LGA in Enugu for vandalising a distribution substation.

“Abdullahi Alahaji was arrested for vandalising College Road Mgbidi Service Center distribution Substation,” he said.

“At Amazon Okwe Ngwo, Udi Local Government Area, Onyema Nnaji was arrested for vandalizing electricity installation in the area, with about eight pieces of the angle iron Cross arms recovered from him.”

Ezeh said that all the vandal suspects have been handed over to the respective police divisions for investigation and prosecution.

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company covers Abia, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi and Imo as its franchise areas.