NSCDC warns against destruction of power installations

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has warned those vandalising public and power installations, engaging in illegal connections and bye-passing of electricity meters to desist or face the full weight of the law.

The State Commandant of the NSCDC, Akinsanya Iskilu Abiodun, gave the warning when he visited the Asaba Business/Branch Manager of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), Mr. Henry Onovwaka, in his office in Asaba.

The NSCDC boss, who spoke through his Command’s Public Relations Officer, Emeka Peters Okwechime, reminded the public that Cap (M12) Paragraphs 9 and 10 of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, stipulate life imprisonment or a minimum of 21 years jail term for offenders without an option of fine.

Speaking on the rights of citizens, Abiodun called on the management of BEDC to always respect the citizens while carrying out its businesses.

He emphasised that as a law enforcement agent protecting life and property, NCDC would ensure rights of citizens are protected, saying the law makes provision for 10 days disconnection notice to be duly served to the consumer before disconnection.

According to him, it is illegal to disconnect electricity without 10 days notice.
He assured the management of BEDC that NSCDC is committed to protecting all government property within its jurisdictions.

He added that safety of life and protection of property by the agency is sacrosanct and not negotiable.

The Asaba Business/Branch Manager of BEDC, Mr. Henry Onovwaka, had earlier urged NSCDC to protect its facilities from vandals.

While narrating the nefarious activities of vandals, Onovwaka stated that BEDC transformers and other installations in the state were being vandalised almost on daily basis.