issues of public health safety

Q669. An explosion of “YZ electricity sub-station” has resulted in the death of a nine (9) years old girl by electrocution. However “YZ electricity distribution company” is adamant and refusing to take responsibility, alleging that the explosion occurred as a result of disturbance by the child even though the substation was not properly protected. Is this right?

“YZ electricity distribution company” will have no option but to take responsibility for its negligence. The Electricity Supply Regulation Cap E7 LFN 2004 (Repealed and replaced by NESIS 2015 provides that all power houses and all substations must be enclosed, and due precaution taken to render them inaccessible to unauthorized persons). Thus the statement by YZ electricity distribution company is skewed and illogical. “YZ company” has a duty of care to the public to protect and safeguard the health of the public against electrocution that may result in death. This must be attained by properly protecting their electrical substation. It is certain that this was not done. The Disco is therefore liable and must be held, and made to bear the legal consequences of such dangerous negligence.

See NERC V. Abuja Distribution Company Plc. with case No: NERC/01/000002/2008 unreported.