NERC to investigate Calabar electrocution incident

THE Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has concluded plans to investigate an electrocution incident which happened in Calabar, Cross Rivers.

It disclosed that a preliminary report of its investigation indicated that the accident occurred when an 11KV high tension line under which a television viewing centre was constructed snapped causing the electrocution of some of the occupants of the viewing centre, with some others sustaining various degrees of injuries.

This was stated in a statement issued by the Head of Public Affairs Department, Usman Abba Arabi at the weekend in Abuja.

It explained that a team of its experts have been dispatched to the scene of the accident to investigate the remote and immediate cause of the unfortunate occurrence.

The commission assured that the   outcome of the investigation will be made public.

It commiserated with families of the victims saying:”Pending the outcome of our investigation, the Commission commiserates with the families, friends and relatives of the deceased, the government and people of Cross Rives State.

“We are also using this opportunity to remind the industry operators and members of the public of the need for strict observance of the Health and Safety Codes for the industry, “it added.

In his reaction, the Youth and Sports Development Minister, Barr Solomon Dalung expressed shock and grief over the tragic incident describing it as sad and unfortunate.

The Minister in a statement issued by the Head of Press Unit, Tolu Makinde, however commended steps already taken by the Cross Rivers State Government in setting up a Commission of Enquiry, to look into remote and immediate causes of the incidence with a view to preventing future occurrence.

It reads: “It is saddening and tragic that what was a happy and joyous relaxation spot for football fans at one moment could suddenly turn into a scene of tragedy of monumental proportion the next minute. The entire football family and indeed sports lovers in Nigeria are saddened by this unfortunate incident.

“The owners of such viewing centers and appropriate regulatory agencies must ensure highest level of safety standards, if we are to ensure that such an unfortunate incidence with its attendant sad loss of lives is not repeated again in our country.”