Okrika: Sole Administrator Urges PHED to Upgrade Services

The Sole Administrator of Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, Tamunobipiboye Isodiki has called on the management of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution to upgrade their cables, high and low tension wires as well as equipment.

In a press statement by the press secretary, Omoni Ayo-Tamuno on Thursday, June 5, 2025, the Administrator made this call after a spot assessment of damaged properties, loss of lives due to the power upsurge at Ogan Mainland and Fiberesima-Ama.

He maintained that there’s need for vigilance and increase in efficiency and capacity in order to safeguard lives and properties of PHED users and avoid reoccurring future disasters.

The Administrator further advised PHED management to focus on the services and not after what they stand to get.

“PHED should not just be interested in collecting money or revenue from their consumers but also be interested in seeing to it that proper connections/wiring are done in people’s premises”

The Administrator expressed his heartfelt sympathy for the bereaved, encouraging consumers to be careful with their appliances and avoid illegal connections.

“I feel very sorry for the loss of two lives, the complete burning of one house and partial destruction of about five other houses.”

The Sole Administrator further advised that law quality cables, improper wiring and poor connections should be avoided, he said all those who have been displaced should seek shelter with their neighbours while the council seek out ways to assist them.

He appreciated the youths for the timely intervention in put out the fire and saving lives.

Reacting, the PHED Okrika Service Center Manager, Ellis Anjumbo said the 11KVA line snapped and fell on the lower 415 line and unto the 16mm that caused the upsurge.

Justina Moses, one of the victims pleaded that the Administrator should assist in getting alternative accommodation and finances too.