NERC to investigate transformer killings in Abuja

The acting chairman of the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission, (NERC‎) Anthony Akah has directed the immediate investigation into the remote cause of a transformer that exploded in the  Tundunwada area of Lugbe, a satellite town in the Federal Capital

Territory, killing about six people and injuring many more.‎

The CEO visited victims of the electrocution incidence with the Electricity Distribution Company officials investigating the incident and pacifying the residents in the locality Saturday  in Abuja to ascertain the level of damage the explosion must have caused‎.

The transformer belonging to Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, AEDC, last Saturday was on fire for about 10 minutes during which it sent devastating electric current to some residential apartments in the area, causing a power surge that created a shock wave to houses in the affected areas.

One of the victims whose his legs were still bleeding one week after the fatal transformer explosion said to be helpless. 

Describing what happened some of the inhabitants said it was a devastating situation as many of the victims were helpless‎, blaming the AEDC for the tragedy, attributing the explosion to a wrong connection by the power firm.

Also noted that some electrocuted as they were about changing the fuse of their electricity switchboard when they saw the blaze from the transformer, while others were about stepping out of their apartment when they were electrocuted. 

After visiting some of the victims the commission chairman gave strict instructions that those affected should be tre‎ated immediately.

Addressing news-men after the tour, Akah said the commission has instituted an investigation into the explosion and it's findings will be made public, while commending the community for their peaceful conduct.  

‎Memories of the incident may remain in the minds of these community dwellers but while that is happening, government must as a matter of urgency steps to see that electric cable and exposed electricity transmission equipment are properly protected to safeguard against future occurrences especially with communities full of children and the aged.