Community Plagued by Transformer Theft Faces Tragedy
An unidentified man was electrocuted on Friday while attempting to vandalize a transformer in the Akute area of Ogun State. The incident occurred during the early hours of the morning and has brought renewed attention to the persistent theft and damage of electrical infrastructure in the community.
The Ogun State Police Command spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the development in a statement obtained on Saturday. She revealed that the deceased had climbed into the transformer house to cut a wire, resulting in his electrocution.
Incident Reported by Community Leader
According to Odutola, the incident was reported to the police by the chairman of the Irewole community, Rasheed Ajagbe.
“At about 10:20 a.m. on Friday, the chairman of the Irewole community reported that for a while, the community had been experiencing theft and damage of electrical wires from their power transformer,” she explained.
Ajagbe stated that around 7 a.m., he received a call to inspect the transformer. Upon arrival with other community executives, they discovered the lifeless body of the unidentified man in the transformer house, alongside evidence of an attempted vandalism.
Police Investigation Underway
A team of detectives from the Ogun State Police Command visited the scene to investigate. Photographs were taken as part of the investigation, and the local PHCN (Power Holding Company of Nigeria) office was contacted to assist with the situation.
“The corpse was subsequently taken and deposited at the General Hospital Ifo mortuary for autopsy and preservation,” Odutola said.
Ongoing Issues with Transformer Theft
The Irewole community has reportedly been grappling with repeated incidents of transformer vandalism, which disrupt power supply and incur significant repair costs. Residents have expressed frustration over the growing threat posed by vandals targeting essential infrastructure.
Call for Enhanced Security Measures
The incident has highlighted the need for enhanced security around power infrastructure to prevent further occurrences. Community leaders and residents have urged authorities to increase patrols and surveillance in vulnerable areas to protect public utilities.
While the tragic death underscores the risks associated with vandalizing high-voltage equipment, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure for the benefit of the community. As investigations continue, the authorities are expected to ramp up efforts to deter future acts of vandalism.
