An unidentified individual has lost his life after being electrocuted while trying to vandalise a MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited (MEDL) substation in Enugu State.
The incident occurred at the Akonobi 500KVA Distribution Substation, located on Independence Avenue in Independence Layout, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
MEDL’s Head of Communications, Emeka Ezeh, confirmed the fatality on Tuesday, calling it a regrettable event. He said the body of the man was found inside the substation in the early hours of the day.
Ezeh said the deceased, allegedly working with others, had successfully loosened two intermediate cables and was attempting to remove a third when electricity was suddenly restored, resulting in his electrocution.
“It appears the victim was not acting alone, as two cables were missing from the scene, suggesting that his accomplices fled with them,” he added.
He further highlighted the growing problem of vandalism targeting electricity infrastructure, noting that such acts disrupt operations and deprive customers of power. Ezeh urged residents to stay vigilant and support efforts to protect electricity facilities.
“Vandalism remains a serious challenge that requires public cooperation to address. We hope this incident will serve as a deterrent to others,” he said.
The police removed the body and deposited it at the morgue of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital.
Acts of vandalism continue to pose a threat to reliable electricity supply in Nigeria, with the Transmission Company of Nigeria reporting 131 incidents across its network in 2025.