Communities must protect power installations to ensure steady supply — FPEDCL boss

The management of First Power Electricity Distribution Company Limited (FPEDCL) has urged customers, communities and organisations to protect its infrastructure from vandalism to ensure steady power supply across Anambra State.

The company said stable electricity in communities and major towns can only be achieved when transformers, cables and other installations are adequately secured by host communities.

Managing Director of FPEDCL (formerly Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC), Engr. Okechukwu Okafor, made this known during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting held on Wednesday in Awka.

He stressed the need for communities to install solar-powered lights and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras around transformers and other critical installations to deter vandals.

Okafor assured residents that efforts were ongoing to address power challenges, adding that electricity supply would improve in the coming months, especially in Awka and its environs.

He described vandalism as a major threat to power supply, urging residents to partner with the company in safeguarding infrastructure.

“Customers should be allies in protecting our facilities. Anambra is a major commercial hub, and we are determined to improve power supply and service delivery,” he said.

He also warned customers against giving money to field workers for replacement of damaged equipment, stressing that the company does not demand such payments.

On metering, Okafor disclosed that arrangements had been concluded with an investor to provide over 13,000 prepaid meters for customers.

In a separate presentation, Head of Safety and Environment, Dr. Tosin Fadairo, warned residents against building or operating businesses under power lines, citing safety risks and possible sanctions.

He noted that the company would enforce regulations mandating the disconnection of structures erected within the power line right-of-way.

Also speaking, Head of Technical Services, Okwudili Udechukwu, urged residents to report acts of vandalism, noting that perpetrators often live within the communities.

“If you see something, say something,” he said.

Similarly, Head of Customer Care, Okafor Obianuju Uchenna, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to improved service delivery and advised customers to always request receipts for payments.

The meeting featured interactive sessions where stakeholders discussed challenges and possible solutions to issues affecting power supply in the state.