By Ifeizu Joe
The management of FirstPower Electricity Distribution Company Ltd. (FPEDL) has confirmed the electrocution of a suspected power facility vandal in Awka, Anambra State.
A press release by the Head of Communications of the company, Mr Izunna Okafor said the unfortunate incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Ogechukwu Street, Awka.
The release noted that heavy explosion was recorded at a transformer substation within the area as a result of the incident, resulting in the death of the suspect, who had tried to tamper with facility.
Okafor said: “The explosion was as a result of unlawful tampering with FirstPower’s electricity network infrastructure by a suspected vandal dressed in security uniform.
“The yet-to-be-identified individual was immediately electrocuted in the process.
“The operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have been contacted and have since evacuated the corpse from the scene, and commenced further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
Okafor further said: “In his reaction, the Managing Director of FirstPower Electricity Distribution Company Limited, Mr. Okechukwu Okafor, strongly condemned acts of vandalism and energy theft, which continue to undermine efforts to provide stable and reliable electricity supply to our customers across Anambra State.
“Beyond the significant financial losses and service disruptions caused by such criminal activities, they also endanger the lives of perpetrators and innocent members of the public.
“FPEDL also uses this medium to once again appeal to residents and community leaders to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities around electricity installations in their vicinity to FirstPower.
“Protecting power infrastructure is a collective responsibility, and community cooperation remains vital in safeguarding assets meant to serve the public good.
“FirstPower remains committed to delivering safe, efficient, and improved electricity services to our customers. We will continue to work closely with security agencies and stakeholders to curb vandalism and ensure adequate protection of our network facilities.”
