THE management of the Somolu Business Unit of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, said it spent over N20 million to replace vandalised electricity equipment in various areas under the district in 2010.

The district’s Senior Manager, Public Affairs, Mr Akinola Ayeni, said in a statement in Lagos that part of the sum was used in the repair and replacement of about 12 transformer sub-stations, which were vandalised during the period to ensure customers enjoyed stable supply of power.

He noted that the district in recent time had raised an alarm over the increasing incidence of equipment vandalism by unidentified persons, saying that the culprits that vandalized the 12 sub-stations are still at large.

“This incessant vandalism and destruction of PHCN equipment in Somolu District is devilish, barbaric and unproductive and aims at crippling the operations of the company,” he decried.

Ayeni condemned the unwholesome attitude of the vandals and warned those involved in the nefarious act to desist from it, adding that henceforth, the power company would no longer replace vandalised equipment in its network.

He, however appealed to customers to be more vigilant over electricity installations and infrastructures in their respective communities, adding that there is a need to arrest the ugly incidence of vandalism.

He further noted that the money spent could have been used to purchase other items to maintain existing facilities to improve service delivery.

Debunking claims of staff complicity, Ayeni stated that only four vandals were arrested last year, with one of them convicted, while the others are still awaiting trial, stressing that no PHCN staff was involved or mentioned in the incidence.

“We implore the communities Development Associations, Government and Non Governmental agencies to rise against the criminals in their midst, and to arrest and report them to the nearest police stations or PHCN office for onward prosecution.

“Stop the vandals before they put your into period of darkness, as we are striving hard to serve you better, please endeavor to electricity bill promptly and regularly,” he urged.