NEMSA: Power Sector’s Electrocution Record Peaked in April

Nigeria’s power sector recorded its worst monthly electrocution record in April 2017, when it reported 17 deaths across the country, the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) has said.

NEMSA disclosed in its monthly safety report and ranking of the 11 electricity distribution companies (Discos) and Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) which it presented to operators at their last monthly meeting in Jos, that the accidents involved staff of operators and third parties.

It explained that these occurred on the back of failures of system protection equipment; poor response to monitored networks and use of substandard materials; and non-adherence to safety rules and regulations.

The company also identified total absence of protection devices; and inadequate knowledge and ignorance on the part of operators and consumers as some of the causes of the accidents.

According to NEMSA, Abuja; Ibadan; Kano; Port Harcourt; Enugu; and Jos Discos accounted for eight of the accidents, which resulted to 17 deaths within the period under review.

The Discos, it stated also recorded major injuries with Port Harcourt, leading in this, and subsequently ranking as the worst performing operator.

NEMSA also explained that between January and April, the sector recorded as much as 34 electrocutions, adding that Eko; Ikeja Discos and TCN recorded zero occurrences so far.

It said it observed a prevalent practice where the Discos connected unsafe structures; buildings; and premises to collect revenue from them.

It equally noted that all illegal structures under power lines or within right of way should first be disconnected from public power supply, followed with demolition nationwide.

In a related development, the Market Operations (MO) department of the TCN has decried the continued disregard of existing rules guiding the operations of the market by its participants.