From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has condemned the demolition of its Orlu District office in Imo State by alleged agents of the state government on Wednesday, May 14. The company reported that staff members were assaulted and arrested during the incident.
According to Emeka Ezeh, Head of Corporate Communications, an excavator deployed by the government demolished key structures, including the store, cash office, and security house, at about 8:30 AM without prior notice or explanation. “The demolition was sudden, violent, and executed without any court order,” Ezeh stated.
EEDC reported that company properties and equipment were destroyed, and staff were denied access to salvage items. The District Business Manager and an operations staff, who attempted to intervene, were allegedly beaten and taken to Owerri by a security unit known as “Tiger Base.” The demolition occurred under the supervision of Orlu Local Government Area Chairman, Chris Mbaeri, according to Ezeh.
The company remains unaware of the reasons for the demolition and urged the Imo State Government to provide clarity. “We request the Imo State Government to explain why an office we have occupied for over two decades is suddenly being demolished in this manner,” Ezeh said.
As of this report, the Imo State government has not issued an official response.