10 EEDC Transformers Vandalization in Onitsha reveals by Mr Okey Nwosu

At least 10 transformers belonging to the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, have been vandalized in the last one year, the management has said.

This was disclosed by the Managing Director of the Disco, Mr Okey Nwosu.

Nwosu, represented by the Head, Security, EEDC, Mr. Frank Ejiofor, stated this in Onitsha, Anambra State, during a Customer Forum organised for electricity customers in its Onitsha, Ogidi and Ogbaru Districts.

He, however, appreciated the customers for their support despite the challenges.

He cautioned against vandalization of EEDC installations and assault on its staff while discharging their duties, explaining that “most outages experienced by customers are as a result of activities of vandals and those who engage in energy theft.”

On his part, the Head Health , Safety and Environment, Engr. Francis Iwu stressed on the need for people to stop erecting buildings under high tension lines, describing it as suicidal.

He said that they had been mandated by NEMSA to disconnect buildings in violation of the power line Right-of-way.

He warned against engaging non EEDC staff in carrying out operations in the network and also against the use of substandard electrical materials, to avoid loss of life and property.

The Head of Communication, EEDC, Mr. Emeka Ezeh in his speech, explained that the meeting was part of the company’s engagement strategy to feel the pulse of customers and also intimate them on the activities of the company towards improved services.

Mr Ezeh called for prompt payment of bills by customers to enable EEDC be efficient in its operations.

He also appealed to customers that were clamouring for prepaid meter to be patient as the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) which has been designed by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to hasten the metering process will soon commence and customers can approach the meter providers and procure their meter.

Some of the customers at the event, like Messrs Ike Ezeaku, Celestine Okonkwo and Oluchi Umeh commended the EEDC for the improvement in power supply.

They, however, laid various complaints mostly on bills, faulty transformers among others.