4 sentenced to 7 years for vandalising EEDC power substation
Story by Susan Mbamah
A High Court in Ebonyi State has sentenced four men to seven years in prison for vandalizing an Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) power substation.
Ikechukwu Esseh, Ikedinachi Uche, Ukpai Godwin, and Uchenna Kalu were found guilty of conspiracy, vandalism, and stealing.
The men were arrested on November 28, 2023, after they attacked a 7.5MVA Injection Substation belonging to EEDC in Afikpo North Local Government Area.
According to EEDC’s Group Head of Corporate Communications, Emeka Ezeh, Hon. Justice Nicholas E. Nwode reviewed the evidence and sentenced the men to five years for conspiracy, seven years for vandalism, and five years for stealing. The sentences are to run concurrently, with no option for a fine.
READ ALSO: Residents capture man for vandalising newly-repaired electrical assets
Ezeh said the EEDC management commended the judiciary for the verdict, hoping it would be a “deterrent to others out there, who may engage in such a criminal act.” The company also thanked the General Youth President and the Afikpo Task Force Team for helping to apprehend the vandals, calling it a prime example of community collaboration.
Ezeh urged customers to help protect power infrastructure, stating that vandalism severely impacts the company’s operations and service delivery. “As a result, we continue to commit scarce resources to restore vandalised equipment, funds that would ordinarily be channeled to other areas of our operations that will benefit our customers,” he said.
He concluded by warning that vandalism leads to service disruptions and advised customers to remain vigilant.
READ ALSO: IPOB Issues Ultimatum to EEDC: Provide adequate electricity or vacate Southeast region
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