Management of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) have been called upon to upgrade their Cables, High and Low Tension and equipment to avoid future disaster.
They have also been told to be vigilant and increase their efficiency capacity to safeguard lives and property of their consumers.
The Sole Administrator of Okrika Local Government Area, Engr Tamunobipiboye Thompson Isodiki, KSC gave the advice today when he undertook on the spot assessment of power surge at Ogan Ama and Fiberesima Ama areas of the LGA.
Engr Isodiki said, “it is obvious that the surge is caused by low quality cable, improper wiring and very poor connections.”
“I feel very sorry for the lost of two lives, burning of one house and partial destruction of about five houses,” he went on, adding that, “PHEDC should not just be interested to collect money or revenue from consumers but be interested to see that proper connections are made to premises.”
Sir Isodiki also advised consumers of power in the LGA to be careful with their electrical appliances and avoid illegal connection, saying that those who have been displaced as as result of the surge, should seek shelter with their neighbours, while efforts would be made to assist them in any way possible.
Sir Isodiki revealed that the loss of two lives was principally caused by the decreased attempt to change or put off power from the fuse and regretted the loss of lives.
Conducting the Sole Administrator and his team which comprises security personnel round the affected areas, the immediate past Caretaker Committee chairman, Princess Ibiene Ogan and Chief Ebenezer Ogan said the incident took place 12 midnight on June 2, when most people were on their beds, pointing out that but for the intervention of the youths more lives were saved. They said some people had minor injuries and were treated and discharged from various health facilities
Also speaking, the Okrika Service Centre Manager of PHEDC, Engr Ellis Moses said that the 11 KVA Line snapped and fell on the Lower line that caused the surge.
One of the victims, Mrs Justine Moses appealed to the Sole Administrator to assist them get alternative accommodation and financial assistance.
