In Nigeria’s oil-rich southern state of Rivers, at least six people have died as a result of electrocution.
The victims were alleged to be on a billboard when they were killed.
The incident allegedly occurred at the Amaechi-School Road junction in Rumuosi, along the East-West Road, in the State’s Obio-Akpor local government area.
An eyewitness said the victims were attempting to install a church billboard at the intersection when the iron from the board made contact with the high-tension pole.
According to the source, some victims died on the spot, while others were brought to a hospital and pronounced dead by a doctor.
Some people were also alleged to have suffered varying degrees of injury as a result of the incident.
The Rivers State Police Command acknowledged the event and stated that an investigation is underway.
The Rivers State Signage and Advertising Agency, on the other hand, has denied any previous knowledge of the billboard’s erection.
The RISAA stated that it was committed to upholding high standards in the allocation of exterior signage and billboards throughout the state.
Okechukwu Edenkwo, RISAA’s Head of Mobile Advertising, told the Daily Post that the agency is resolved not to compromise on standards and professionalism.
“As an agency, we frown upon people erecting signage and structures without consulting with us.”
“We have no idea what caused what happened yesterday.”
