The Management of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution (PHED) has been urged to upgrade their cables, high and low-tension wires, and equipment to avoid future disasters. They have also been told to be vigilant and increase their efficiency and capacity to safeguard the lives and property of their consumers.
The Sole Administrator of the Okrika Local Government Area, Engr Tamunobipiboye Thompson Isodiki, gave the advice when he undertook on the spot assessment of damages of property, loss of lives, due to power upsurge at Ogan mainland and
Fiberesima Ama. Engr. Isodiki said, “It is obvious that the power upsurge is the cause as well as low quality cables, improper wiring and very poor connections.
“I feel very sorry for the loss of two lives, the complete burning of one house, and the partial destruction/burning of about five other houses. He said, “PHED should not just be interested in collecting money or revenue from their consumers, but also be interested in seeing to it that proper connections/ wiring are made in peoples premises.”
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Sir Isodiki advised consumers of power to be careful with their electrical appliances and to avoid illegal connections. The Sole Administrator said that those who have been displaced as a result of the fire outbreak should seek shelter with their neighbors while he would see in what ways the Council will assist them.
Sir Isodiki revealed that the loss of two lives was caused principally by the deceased in attempting to change phase or put off power from the fuse box and regretted the loss of lives. During a tour of the affected communities, the Sole Administrator and his team, accompanied by security personnel, were informed by the immediate past Caretaker Committee Chairperson, Princess Ibinabo Ogan, and Chief Ebenezer Ogan, that the incident occurred around midnight on June 2, 2025.
When most people were still in bed, but for the timely intervention of the youth, more lives and property would have been lost. They said some people who sustained minor injuries were treated and discharged from various health institutions.
Also, speaking the PHED Okrika Service Centre Manager, Engr. Ellis Anjumbo said that the 11 KVA Line snapped and fell on the Lower 415 line and unto the 16mm that caused the upsurge. Speaking, one of the victims, Mrs Justina Moses, appealed to the Sole Administrator to assist them in getting alternative accommodation and financial assistance, too.
