PORT HARCOURT – The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Plc (PHED) has warned against vandalism of power infrastructure following the death of a suspected vandal who was electrocuted while tampering with a high-tension installation.
The company’s Head of Corporate Communications, Olubukola Ilevbare, disclosed that the incident occurred in the early hours of April 24 at about 4:30 a.m. in Oginigba Community, Port Harcourt.
According to her, the victim, identified as Khalifa and believed to be in his late twenties, died instantly after disconnecting a pot insulator from a high-tension pole just as electricity supply was restored.
She described the incident as unfortunate, noting that the victim “was a casualty of his own actions.”
Ilevbare stressed that vandalism of power infrastructure has far-reaching consequences for consumers, as it disrupts electricity supply and affects economic activities.
She expressed hope that the incident would serve as a deterrent to others, adding that offenders risk up to 21 years’ imprisonment under existing laws.
She further disclosed that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other individuals involved in vandalism.
Meanwhile, PHED announced that Mbodo Aluu Community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area has been upgraded to Band A to improve electricity supply.
The upgrade guarantees a minimum of 20 hours of daily power supply, up from its previous Band D status.
The improvement followed the installation of six new 500KVA transformers and replacement of key infrastructure, including conductors, insulators, poles, and other accessories.
Ilevbare said the intervention underscores the company’s commitment to service delivery and infrastructure development, urging residents to support the initiative by paying their electricity bills promptly.
