Public safety: YEDC launches campaign to address violations of Right-of-way in Adamawa
In a proactive move to ensure public safety and prevent electrical accidents, a Joint Task Force comprising officials from Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC), the Ministry of Environment, Urban and Regional Planning, and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has initiated a robust advocacy campaign to address rising cases of electrical right-of-way (RoW) violations in Adamawa State.
The campaign, a series of safety initiatives of the Company was launched in Yola North Local Government Area, and aimed to raise awareness about the hazards posed by illegal structures and commercial activities carried out beneath high-tension (HT) lines.
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Two tragic accidents have already been recorded in Jimeta, emphasizing the need for immediate attention.
According to Mr. Julius Idowu, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) personnel at YEDC, “Right-of-way violations occur when structures are built under high-tension lines or DURING commercial and business activities carried out beneath electrical structures.”
These violations not only endanger lives but also compromise the reliability of electricity supply.
Engr. Albert Lungu, representative from the Ministry of Environment, highlighted the long-term health hazards associated with electromagnetic radiation emitted from HT lines.
“The radiation causes heart failure, cancer, and other serious health issues. The effects are not immediate but a gradual process.”
Lungu emphasized that awareness is crucial in preventing these hazards.
Barr. Jibrin Ibrahim, Chairman of Yola North Local Government, commended the inter-agency collaboration, stressing the importance of collective efforts.
“When we work together, we achieve results,” he said.
He pledged support for the initiative by mobilizing community leaders, faith-based organizations, and traders to participate in awareness campaigns.
Ibrahim acknowledged the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and poor planning, contributing to RoW violations.
“Continuous urbanization is responsible for these encroachments. Approvals are often given for areas that should not be allocated for development,” he said.
He therefore stressed the need for careful planning and consideration of safety standards in future urban developments.
The Joint Task Force’s advocacy efforts led by YEDC plans to continue through:
1. Electronic media campaigns
2. Physical outreach programs across the state
3. Community engagement and sensitization
4. Collaboration with stakeholders, including the Ministry of Land and Survey and Urban Regional Planning.
All of these underscore YEDC’s commitment to providing electricity in a safe and reliable manner. The company thus urges the public to report any RoW violations or safety concerns whenever they are encountered within the network.
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