Shocking statistic: Vandalism blamed for 13% of power accidents in Q1-Q3/2023, says NERC

Infostride News reported that, according to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), vandalism has been a significant factor contributing to 13% of power-related accidents in the first three quarters of 2023.

The statement was made by Engr. Idris Aminu Idris, the SM in charge of Engineering Performance and Monitoring at NERC, during a meeting held on November 8 with Health and Safety Managers within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). In addressing the issue, Engr. Idris emphasized the need for Distribution Companies (DisCos) to collaborate with relevant security agencies to mitigate incidents of vandalism.

Furthermore, Engr. Idris highlighted the importance of reporting all significant accidents, including loss of human life, electric shock to animals, and damage to equipment or apparatus due to electrical causes. He referenced section 5.3 of the Safety Code, which stipulates the reporting obligations. Failure to comply with this reporting requirement was emphasized as a serious offense with high penalties.

The 2023 Electricity Act provides a legal framework for addressing various electricity-related offenses within the sector. Each offense is accompanied by specific penalties designed to deter unlawful actions. Some of the offenses and their corresponding penalties include:

1. **Impersonation Offense**
– Penalties: A fine of N300,000 or a minimum prison term of 7 years, or both.

2. **Unauthorized Connection, Reconnection, or Meter Alteration**
– Penalties: Imprisonment for a maximum of three years or a fine not exceeding N500,000, with an additional fine of N10,000 for each day the offense persists.

3. **Unauthorized Ownership or Engagement in Electricity Business**
– Penalties: A fine set at ten times the application and license fees for the breached license, imprisonment for a maximum of 5 years, or both. Additionally, a court order for permanent forfeiture of the undertaking to the NERC.

4. **Intentionally Cutting off the Electric Supply Line**
– Penalties: A fine of no less than N300,000.

5. **Aiding or Abetting an Offense**
– Penalties: Vary according to the severity of the abetted offense.

6. **Acts of Non-compliance or Contravention**
– Penalties: Imprisonment for not more than 3 months or a fine of N500,000. There is also an additional daily penalty not exceeding N100,000 for continuous offenses.

7. **Damage to Electricity Supply Material**
– Penalties: A fine of N300,000 and the restoration of the damaged material or line.

8. **Receipt of Stolen Electrical Property**
– Penalties: A 14-year prison term or a fine not exceeding three times the value of the stolen property. Alternatively, both a prison term and a fine.

9. **Theft of Electricity (Tapping, Unlawful Connection, Meter Tampering, Bypassing)**
– Penalties: A 3-year prison term or a fine, or both.

10. **Destruction of Public Streetlights**
– Penalties: A fine up to N200,000.

11. **Non-compliance with Rules, Orders, Licenses, or Decisions**
– Penalties: A fine of N500,000 or a 3-month prison term. Furthermore, there is an additional penalty of N100,000 for each day the offense persists.

12. **False Declaration**
– Penalties: A fine not exceeding N100,000 or a prison term of up to 6 months, or both.

13. **Tampering with Electric Lines or Material**
– Penalties: A 3 to 5-year prison term or a fine of not less than N500,000, or both.

These penalties serve the dual purpose of reinforcing compliance and deterring individuals or entities from engaging in illegal or disruptive activities within the electricity sector. They play a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity and lawful operation of the electrical infrastructure. Infostride News continues to monitor and report on developments in the Nigerian electricity sector, emphasizing the importance of adherence to regulations for the safety and sustainability of the industry.