Eko Disco urges residents to observe safety measures during rainy season
CHIGOZIE AMADI
Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has advised residents of Ibeju to prioritise safety amid the increased risks posed by the ongoing rainy season.
Mrs Rekhiat Momoh, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Eko Disco, issued the advice on Thursday during a customer forum held in Lagos.
The Ibeju Business District includes Elemoro, Abijo, Sangotedo, Bogije, Sapphire Garden Estate, Eleko, and May Fair Gardens.
Momoh was represented by Mr Joseph Esenwa, Chief Financial Officer of Eko Disco, stressed the importance of staying clear of fallen poles or cables to prevent electrocution.
She highlighted that the town hall meeting serves as a vital platform to bridge the communication gap between management and residents, addressing issues related to electricity distribution.
Momoh emphasised the dangers of mixing electricity and water, urging residents to report any hazards promptly via the company’s customer care line or email for immediate action.
“Stay away from exposed and fallen wires, and maintain a safe distance from snapped power cables or dangling wires, especially near streetlights and poles,” she said.
“Do not use electrical appliances with wet hands or stand in puddles that might be electrically charged.”
She further advised residents to be aware of compromised infrastructure such as fallen poles and unprotected transformers, which pose significant risks.
“Keep a safe distance from power lines and avoid planting trees that could interfere with them, respecting the ‘Right-of-Way’,” she added.
Momoh noted, “Heavy and continuous rainfall has begun, as experienced over the past few days.
We advise our customers to exercise caution during this period and avoid flooded and hazardous areas.
“Stay clear of electrical installations and high-tension lines, as these become more dangerous during the rainy season.
“Customers have been urged to stay vigilant by avoiding contact with exposed wires and wet electrical appliances,” she added.
She appealed to customers to cooperate with company officials as they work to improve power supply and service delivery.
Momoh warned against involvement in meter bypassing and energy theft, stressing that offenders would face the full force of the law following thorough inspections.
She said that customers were encouraged to report any electricity hazards immediately to help the company respond swiftly.
She also assured residents that additional personnel would be deployed to improve the turnaround time for fault resolution, especially considering the heavy downpour.
Momoh reminded customers of the importance of prompt bill payments, noting that some communities have accumulated substantial unpaid debts.
She called for cooperation in adhering to safety measures to prevent accidents and casualties during the rainy season.
She also mentioned ongoing projects aimed at increasing megawatt allocations to Ibeju residents and neighboring communities.
However, she raised concerns over rising incidents of energy theft and vandalism, which have led to significant revenue losses for EKEDC.
“Energy theft, meter bypassing, vandalism, and unpaid bills are costing the company billions of naira annually,” she stated.
“These illegal activities not only affect the company’s revenue but also impact all customers.
Mr Joseph Idinyen, Chairman of the Ibeju Customer Consultative Forum, praised EKEDC’s prompt response to faults and quality customer service. He also called for effective metering to avoid estimated billing.
Similarly, Mr Adewale Adeworoju,
Chairman Lekki Residents Association, condemned energy theft and vandalism, describing perpetrators as enemies of society.
He urged all well-meaning citizens to unite in combating these criminal acts.
Adeworoju emphasised that improving power supply is crucial for socio-economic development and job creation, and protecting power infrastructure should be a shared responsibility of all development advocates.
