Tragedy was averted on Tuesday, December 29, 2009, along Old Abraka road, Boji-Boji, Owa when a lorry loaded with rubber lump had its brake failed as it was descending from Onyibe Street. The driver of the lorry with registration number AY 828 BEN, unable to control the vehicle rarmmed through the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN sub-station along Abraka road by Onyibe junction into the opposite compound, in the process destroying both the PHCN installations and a part of the building.
When Ika Weekly arrived the scene of the accident some top management staff of PHCN were already there to ascertain the level of damage to PHCN facilities at the sub-station. Speaking to our reporter, the Manager, Distribution, Agbor Business District, Engineer Ike Onuoha said the accident has affected power distribution to consumers around Abraka road, Onyibe Street and other adjoining streets. He said that it was going to cost so much money to put the damaged facilities back into good order, which according to him will be replaced by the owner of the vehicle.
Engr. Onuoha who said that as soon as the driver of the ill-fated vehicle was apprehended he will be handed over to the police for prosecution, cautioned motorists to always be careful whenever they are driving especially in built-up areas. "Imagine what would have happened if residents of the affected building were at home. They would probably have been injured or killed. We thank God that school children are on holidays, and that no live was affected by the unfortunate occurrence. Motorists should always endeavour to put their vehicles in good working condition" he stated.
The Manager Distribution however implored affected customers in the areas to exercise patience for PHCN to find solution to the forced black-out they will be experiencing. He also advised them to be vigilant and not allow vandals to vandalize the damaged sub-station.
Meanwhile, the head of the family whose sitting room was almost completely damaged by the lorry has expressed appreciation to God for saving his life and that of his children. The man who gave his name as Mr. Stephen Oghenegueke, a native of Urhobo told Ika Weekly that he and his family were at the Untouchable Church, located along Benin-Asaba road, where they worship, when information reached him that a lorry had run into their sitting room.
Mr. Oghenegueke, a civil servant, said they were at a retreat organized by the church when the incident happened, saying that it all shows that God is always watching over His children. Praising God for His protection, he promised to serve Him for the rest of his life, even as he charged believers to always anchor their trust and faith in God who he said is faithful at all times.
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