Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has condemned acts of vandalism and assaults on staff members, stressing that seven people have been arraigned in court for their involvement in these crimes.
General Manager, Corporate Communications at Eko Electricity Distribution Company, Babatunde Lasaki, expressed dismay at the incidents.
“We strongly condemn the acts of vandalism and assault against our staff members. These incidents not only disrupt our operations but also jeopardise the safety and wellbeing of our employees, who provide reliable electricity services to our esteemed customers.
“EKEDC remains committed to the safety and security of our employees and the provision of uninterrupted electricity services to our customers. We call on the public to join us in condemning these acts and reporting any suspicious activities related to our infrastructure to the appropriate authorities.
“EKEDC will continue to prioritise the safety of its staff and the reliable supply of electricity to its customers,” he added. The company urged the public to assist in protecting electricity infrastructure and fostering a culture of accountability and respect.
The Guardian gathered that the Electricity Distribution Company (DisCo) arraigned Ayomide Oyebanjo, on November 30 2022, for assault of Sanmi Matthew, a driver of its Ikate zonal office.
The defendant, who used bottles to inflict multiple injuries on the driver, was arraigned on a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy, assault occasioning harm, demanding money with menace, belonging to unlawful society, obstruction of duty and conduct likely to cause breach of peace.
He pleaded guilty to the count charge for assault occasioning harm and pleaded not guilty to the other charges. Mathew was convicted for assault occasioning bodily harm and sentenced to six months imprisonment without option of fine.
Likewise, Chima Kingsley and Mr. Abdullahi Yakubu were arrested on December 30, 2022 at No. 389 Agege Motor Road under Mushin Business District vandalising the 750KVA substation situated at that location.
On January 10, 2023, the suspects were arraigned on a two-count charge, bordering on conspiracy to commit a felony and stealing. They both pleaded not guilty and were granted bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties each.
Also, on February 2, 2023, Nurudeen Moshood and Aweda Mustapha were arraigned at the Magistrate Court 2, Surulere, Lagos, on a five-count charge of conspiracy, assault, and damage to property belonging to staff of EKEDC. Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges and were granted bail in the sum of N50,000 each and a surety in lieu.