Abuja electricity cries out over vandalism of installations

Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) has expressed its concerns over the recurring vandalism of its electrical assets and installations across its franchise area.

They said the reoccurring incident have impeded the company’s efforts to deliver a stable and reliable power supply to its customers.

Donald Etim, Chief Marketing Officer, said in a statement that the surge in cases of vandalism has become worrisome
He said: ‘‘The surge in cases of vandalism within our franchise area has become quite worrisome.”

“These vandals lately and increasingly utilise unfathomable methods to perpetrate their criminal acts.

“This technique upgrade to their evil trade has emboldened the thieves to attack more urban assets and installations of late, thereby affecting higher customer densities.

“Recently, 185 meters of XLPE underground cable was carted away at the Central Business Area, Abuja FCT, valued at over N5 million at just one location out of several others that have been similarly affected across our franchise.

“The multiplier effect of these damages runs into billions of naira.’’

AEDC said it has strengthened its collaboration with security agencies.

It urged its customers and citizens to be security conscious and immediately report all suspicious activities around electrical installations and any display of bad behaviour by AEDC Staff.

The firm said those with information should calling the whistleblowing hotline on 0800 847 6337, or send an email to tip-offs@deloitte.com.ng.

“Apprehended vandals will be made to face the consequences of their actions in line with the laws of Nigeria.

“No less than five vandals bagged several jail terms within the AEDC franchise area last year,” the firm said.