Tragedy struck in the early hours of Monday when a high-tension electricity cable snapped and fell on homes in Okrika community, killing at least six people, including a pregnant woman and an officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The incident occurred around 1:12 am in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, leaving residents in shock and mourning.
Eyewitnesses said the cable fell during a power surge, setting off a chain of destruction that led to the deaths of six residents and the destruction of properties worth millions of naira. A building was also razed in the process, with furniture, electronics, and other belongings consumed by fire.
Authorities in Rivers State have yet to release an official statement confirming the identities of the victims or outlining the next steps. However, local leaders have expressed grief over the incident and urged the government to investigate.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has in the past raised concerns about the safety of power infrastructure in residential areas, especially as many communities continue to grow around old electric installations.
As investigations begin, residents of Okrika are calling for immediate action to prevent another disaster and to honour those whose lives were cut short in the tragic incident.
