A man, identified as Samuel Bernard, yesterday was remanded in prison custody after allegedly assaulting two officials of BEDC Electricity Plc as they carried out their lawful duties during a routine meter-bypass inspection.
The incident occurred when BEDC officials, Chibuzor Japhet and Anthony Kido, examined a site within Say-Eke DSS and unearthed definitive proof of meter tampering.
According to the report, Bernard allegedly became angry following the discovery and attacked the BEDC officials. In the course of the confrontation, he allegedly shredded their clothes and damaged Kido’s Infinix mobile phone, valued at about ₦120,000, as well as a shirt valued at ₦20,000.
The matter was immediately reported to the Ugbor Police Station, where the accused was arrested on Saturday, October 3, 2026.
Bernard was subsequently arraigned before the court on Monday, October 5, 2026, on a two-count charge bordering on assault and malicious destruction of property.
He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was thereafter remanded in custody, with the matter adjourned to October 29, 2026, for further hearing.
The Spokesperson for BEDC Electricity Plc, Mrs. Evelyn Gbiwen stated that, BEDC, will remain committed to serving ,”our customers professionally while protecting our staff and assets in the line of duty. We wish to make it clear that BEDC will not accept or tolerate molestation, assault, or any form of violence against any of our staff carrying out their lawful duties. We urge all customers to use legitimate channels to address any concerns.”
The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of BEDC personnel who routinely visit homes, business premises and communities to carry out meter inspections, monitoring, disconnection and other legitimate electricity-related assignments.
