Company Laments Increased Equipment Vandalism

The management of the Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company has raised  alarm over increased rate of vandalism of its equipment in many parts of Lagos State.

The cases of vandalism, which had initially reduced after the conviction of two vandals, who were sentenced to various terms of imprisonment, had assumed a wider dimension in the last six months, a statement from the company on Wednesday indicated.

During this period, a total of 69 distribution transformer substations were vandalised and various electrical items were stolen from stations, thereby throwing the communities being supplied from the stations into darkness, the firm explained.

It said, “The socio-economic effect of this act of sabotage is high.  Apart from throwing communities into darkness, the cost of replacing vandalised equipment is colossal and the management can no longer bear such cost.

“The company spent over N20 million to replace the equipment in the vandalised substations.  This amount would have been better expended on new projects for network expansion.”

The firm advised Community Development Associations and other well-meaning community members to be at alert and assist in curbing vandalism of electrical equipment within their locality, while also seeking the continued support of the police, State Security Service and other security agencies in putting an end to vandalism of electrical equipment.