By Ovat Abeng
The management of FirstPower Electricity Distribution Company Limited, a subsidiary of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company EEDC, has appealed to customers and the general public in Anambra State to stop buying and selling under high tension cables.
Engr Tosin Caleb Fadairo, Head of Health Safety and Environment, First Power Electricity Distribution Company Limited, gave the advice while speaking to Journalists shortly after sensitizing traders at the popular aroma junction Awka, on Wednesday.on the danger of trading under high tension cables.
He said sensitization campaign is in line with the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency.
Fadairo said that the danger of trading under such high tension cables far outweighs the profits of any business transaction.
He further explained that, due to weight of the cables and fire outbreaks, the wires could snap or sag, thereby causing electrical shock that could lead to disabilities, life threatening injuries or even death.
He said the safest distance to the wires should be 5.5 meters or 11 steps away.
According to him, today, we are sensitizing the people to always stay clear of electrical installations, overhead wires, snapped/cut wires and pole. It’s dangerous to trade under such environment.
“Its dangerous for landlords and other residence to connect the electricity grid by themselves using quacks.
“Traders should trade 5.5 meters or 11 steps away from the high tension cables for their own safety and the safety of their patronize.
Fadairo described those fearlessly engaging in buying and selling under the high tensions as suicide missioners.
Also speaking, the Head of Communication, First Power, Mr Izunna Okafor, warned that the company will embarked on a wide enforcement (disconnection exercise) of the affected buildings if the they falled to compliance.
He noted that the sensitization campaign is currently ongoing across the state.
