FirstPower Staff Risk Sanctions over Alleged Extortion, Illegal Disconnection in Obosi

By Praise Chinecherem

Management of FirstPower Electricity Distribution Company Limited has commenced an investigation into allegations of illegal disconnection of customers and extortion of money as a condition for reconnection by some of its field personnel, particularly within the Obosi District, as contained in a video currently circulating on social media.

Head, Communications, Izunna Okafor in a statement said Management viewed the allegations seriously and has, as an immediate step, summoned the staff members whose photographs appeared in the video for interrogation and questioning as part of efforts to establish the facts surrounding the allegations.

He assured appropriate disciplinary and other necessary actions would be taken taken by the management on any staff found culpable in accordance with the Company’s policies and applicable laws.

Okafor appealed to the public and customers of the Company to remain calm and allow the appropriate process to take its course while investigation continued.

He also encouraged any customer with experience of illegal disconnection, extortion or any other unprofessional conduct allegedly perpetrated by its staff to approach the office with verifiable evidence to assist the investigation.

The statement reads in part, “The Management reiterates that its personnel had been cautioned to conduct themselves professionally at all times, strictly adhere to the Company’s standard operating procedures and treat customers with courtesy and respect in the course of their duties.

“FirstPower will therefore not condone any act of misconduct, extortion, unauthorized disconnection or abuse of customers by any member of staff found to have violated the Company’s rules and procedures.

“Where wrongdoing is established, appropriate disciplinary and other necessary actions will be taken in accordance with the Company’s policies and applicable laws.

“At the same time, the Management appeals to customers to remain cooperative with FirstPower personnel carrying out lawful and legitimate duties in the field. Customers are urged not to obstruct, assault, threaten or otherwise prevent authorized personnel from performing their responsibilities.

“Any customer who is dissatisfied with the conduct of FirstPower personnel or has concerns about any field operation is strongly advised not to take the law into their own hands, but to promptly report the matter through the Company’s established complaint and whistleblowing channels mentioned above for urgent investigation and necessary action.

“The Management appreciates the continued support and cooperation of its customers as FirstPower works daily to improve electricity distribution, strengthen customer service and enhance the overall experience of electricity consumers across Anambra State.

“FirstPower remains committed to transparency, accountability, professionalism and customer satisfaction and assures the public that the outcome of the ongoing investigation will guide the appropriate action.”