The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has expressed deep concern over the recent vandalism of critical electricity installations within its operational zone in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State.
In a statement issued on the 5th of January, 2025, the company’s Head of Corporate Communications, Emeka Ezeh, revealed that the disruption of power supply in parts of Abakaliki stemmed from the vandalisation of the Udemezue 11KV Feeder in the early hours of the day.
Ezeh highlighted the affected areas, which include Oroko-onuoha, Udensi, Kpirikpiri, Ogbaga Road, New Layout, Udemezue, Low Cost Housing Estate, and Hilltop Road.
He also noted that the power outage has impacted prominent establishments such as Amikaba, Siren Hotel, Man City Hotel, Muchels Hotel, De Pablo Hotel, and Unity FM radio station.
“We wish to inform our esteemed customers in Abakaliki metropolis that the current loss of power supply being experienced is due to the vandalisation of Udemezue 11KV Feeder in the early hours of today, January 5,” Ezeh stated.
According to him, EEDC officials discovered the sabotage during a routine patrol following an abnormal outage on the feeder at 2:40 a.m. The vandals reportedly made away with about 16 metres of 150mm2 x 3-core armoured underground cable, which is essential to the feeder’s operation.
This act of vandalism has left over 70 public and private transformers without power, disrupting the lives of numerous customers who depend on the affected network.
“We sincerely regret this unprecedented development and hereby appeal to our customers for their patience and understanding as we are already working to replace the stolen/damaged items,” Ezeh added.
He reassured customers that the company was working swiftly to restore power supply, emphasizing EEDC’s commitment to enhancing service delivery despite setbacks.