Electricity worker dies from electric shock in Enugu

MainPower Electricity Distribution Ltd has confirmed the death of one of its workers in an electrical accident in Enugu State.

The company's spokesman, Emeka Ezeh, shared the details of the incident in Enugu on Monday.

Mr Ezeh stated that the accident happened on 13 August at Eke, Udi Local Government Area, around 1 p.m.

He named the deceased as Samson Okechi, the team lead for Abor, who worked at MainPower’s 9th Mile District.

According to him, Mr Okechi was doing maintenance work on a 50kVA/11kV pole-mounted distribution substation when he was electrocuted.

“Okechi was carrying out maintenance work on a 50kVA/11kV pole-mounted distribution substation at Eke when he sustained an electric shock,” Mr Ezeh said.

He mentioned that Mr Okechi was rushed to Our Saviour Hospital, Ngwo, for treatment after the electric shock, but the doctor confirmed him dead on arrival.

Mr Ezeh added that Mr Okechi’s body was later taken to a mortuary, and the incident was reported to Ngwo Police Station.

He said the police report was made for documentation and other necessary steps following the serious workplace accident.

Mr Ezeh rejected social media claims suggesting that Mr Okechi was murdered or that sabotage caused the incident.

“I wonder why some people take pleasure in conjuring unfounded narratives and circulating them, thereby creating unnecessary tension and bad blood.

“This is so unfair,” Mr Ezeh added, urging the public to ignore these claims as baseless.

He explained that Mr Okechi had asked for a Station Guarantee for the Okwe 11kV Feeder before starting the maintenance work.

Mr Ezeh mentioned that the Station Guarantee was granted at about 11:06 a.m. at the 9th Mile Injection Substation.

He said that the feeder was opened and tagged as part of the safety process.

“This is a very unfortunate development and a big shock to all of us, his colleagues. Our hearts go out to his immediate family as they grieve,” he added.

The spokesman revealed that MainPower management has started an investigation into what led to the accident.

He said the investigation will look into the immediate, underlying and root causes of the incident.

“We are committed to ensuring that the investigation is thorough and evidence-based,” Mr Ezeh said.

He explained that the findings would help identify safety gaps and decide on the right corrective measures.

“The findings will be used to identify any gaps, determine appropriate corrective measures, and strengthen safety procedures and operational controls,” he said.

Mr Ezeh assured customers and stakeholders that safety is a top priority for MainPower.

He added that the company will put in place the right measures based on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.