Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Plc, PHED, has confirmed the death of a suspected vandal who was electrocuted while allegedly attempting to interfere with electricity infrastructure in Oginigba, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The incident, which reportedly occurred in the early hours of Friday, April 24, 2026, involved a young man identified as Khalifa.
According to the company, he was trying to remove a component from a high-tension facility when the situation turned fatal.
Providing details, PHED’s Head of Corporate Communications, Olubukola Ilevbare, explained that the suspect had tampered with a part of the installation before power was restored, leading to his death at the scene.
“The vandal who was reportedly in his late twenties was said to have died on-the-spot after disconnecting a pot insulator from a High-Tension pole,” the statement said.
PHED stressed that acts of vandalism continue to pose serious risks, not only to those involved but also to customers who depend on stable electricity supply.
The company warned that damage to power infrastructure often results in widespread outages and disruption of service.
“It is a battle we must all fight collectively because once these installations are vandalised, invariably, the customers served become severely impacted,” Ilevbare said.
Describing the development as unfortunate, the company urged individuals engaged in such acts to desist, noting that the consequences can be fatal.
“It is hoped that the death of Khalifa, who paid the ultimate price with his life, will serve as a deterrent to others involved in such criminal activities,” she added.
PHED further reminded the public that offences related to electricity infrastructure attract stiff legal penalties, including lengthy prison terms, and disclosed that investigations are ongoing to track other individuals linked to similar activities in the area.
Meanwhile, the company announced an improvement in power supply for residents of Mbodo Aluu Community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, following their migration to Band A.
The upgrade is expected to significantly increase daily electricity availability after the area previously operated on a lower supply band.
The company said the development was made possible through infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of new transformers and the replacement of critical components.
PHED also acknowledged the cooperation of residents, particularly in clearing outstanding electricity bills, noting that such efforts support improved service delivery.
