In a heart-wrenching incident that has left the community in shock, an unconfirmed number of individuals have been tragically electrocuted to death at the Amaechi-School Road junction in Rumuomasi, situated along the East-West Road in the Obio-Akpor local government area of Rivers State.
Contradictory reports have surfaced regarding the exact toll of the disaster. While some sources suggest that the electrocution claimed the lives of more than six people, others maintain that there were five casualties. In addition to the lives lost, several victims also sustained varying degrees of injuries in the incident.
Eyewitness accounts reveal that the victims were attempting to mount a church billboard at the junction when a piece of iron from the billboard made contact with a high-tension pole. The lethal result was immediate for some, while others were rushed to a medical facility, where a medical professional pronounced them deceased.
The Rivers State Police Command has officially acknowledged the tragic event and has pledged a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Signage and Advertising Agency (RISAA) has responded to the incident, asserting that the agency was not informed beforehand about the erection of the billboard. RISAA reiterated its unwavering commitment to upholding stringent standards in the allocation of external signage and billboards within the state.
Okechukwu Edenkwo, the Head of Mobile Advertising at RISAA, emphasized the agency’s dedication to maintaining professionalism and excellence. In a conversation with Daily Post, Edenkwo lamented the situation, stating, “We are deeply concerned when signage and structures are erected without adhering to the appropriate channels. We were completely unaware of the circumstances that led to yesterday’s unfortunate incident. Moreover, the responsible party did not even seek approval from our agency.”
Edenkwo extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of RISAA to the families and friends of those who lost their lives due to the tragic electrocution incident on Monday. As investigations continue, the community grapples with the shock of the devastating loss and the urgent need for heightened safety measures.
