Man electrocuted while vandalizing MEDL substation in Enugu

By Chinedu Adonu

ENUGU — In the early hours of Tuesday, the lifeless body of an unidentified man was discovered inside the Akonobi 500KVA Distribution Substation, operated by MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited along Independence Avenue, Independence Layout, Enugu.

The deceased, who reportedly acted with accomplices, had loosened two intermediate cables from the substation and was attempting to remove a third when electricity supply was restored, leading to his electrocution.

Mr. Emeka Ezeh, Head of Communications at MEDL, described the incident as unfortunate, noting that the presence of missing cables suggested the deceased did not act alone, as his accomplices apparently fled with the stolen materials.

Ezeh expressed concern over the rising incidence of vandalism targeting electricity infrastructure, highlighting the negative impact on both company revenue and service delivery. He called on customers to remain vigilant and collaborate with the company to prevent similar acts.

“Vandalism is a major challenge that cannot be effectively addressed without the active support of our customers, who are critical stakeholders. It is a battle we must all fight collectively,” he said.

The MEDL spokesperson added that the death of the young man “who paid the ultimate price with his life” should serve as a deterrent to others involved in such criminal activities.

The body of the electrocuted suspect has been evacuated by the Nigerian Police and deposited at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH morgue).