Police React To ‘Abduction of Transmission Substation Workers’ Story

The Nigeria Police has reacted to allegations that its men invaded the Egbu 132/33KV Transmission Substation, holding workers hostage at gun point.

Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye who reacted on behalf of the force, dismissed the allegation in a statement.

Describing what happened as an “operational disagreement” between Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, and Orashi Electricity Distribution Company, he said the police was however investigating.

“Preliminary findings show that there is no indication that National Integrated Power Transmission Company, NISO, or Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, personnel were abducted, held hostage, or forced to disconnect any facility.”

“Current findings indicate that the situation stems from an operational disagreement involving the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, and the Orashi Electricity Distribution Company, which the chairman of the Imo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ISERC) was present to resolve.

“The investigation will establish all facts objectively.”

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“In synergy with Imo State government, the command remains fully committed to ensuring that TCN/NISO operators and all electricity personnel carry out their duties safely, professionally, and without intimidation.

”Measures have also been taken to prevent any future occurrence and to safeguard critical infrastructure across the state,” it assured.

The Eagle reports that the umbrella body of electricity workers National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), had already reacted to the incident declaring:

“NUEE strongly condemns this reprehensible act and demands the immediate release of our abducted members.

“We also call for a formal undertaking from TCN management, the Federal Ministry of Power, and the Inspector General of Police to ensure the protection of our members and to prevent any further traumatising incidents of this nature by putting the police in check.

“Additionally, we demand the immediate replacement of all staff property damaged or taken away, and we insist that all assaulted workers be provided with full medical attention”, it said.