POS Operator Killed by Falling Power Cable in Anambra State

 

A tragic incident occurred over the weekend in Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, where a newly married Point-of-Sale (POS) operator was electrocuted to death after a high-tension cable snapped and fell on him.

According to eyewitnesses, the victim was standing in front of his shop—situated directly beneath the power line—when the cable suddenly detached and struck him. A viral video circulating on social media shows his lifeless body lying on the ground with the high-tension wire draped over it, emitting smoke.

Sources in the area confirmed that the deceased had recently gotten married.

Reacting to the incident on Tuesday, August 5, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA), Ossy Onuko, described the tragedy as deeply unfortunate. He emphasized that this type of preventable loss highlights the dangers of building or operating businesses beneath high-tension power lines.

“This is something we have continuously campaigned against—that it is extremely dangerous to build or trade under high-tension wires,” Onuko said.

He added that despite ongoing sensitisation efforts by the agency, many people still ignore the warnings, often returning to the same locations after enforcement officials leave.

“It is sadly one example of many negative outcomes and resultant effects of such negligence. A shop or kiosk located under high-tension cables is a disaster waiting to happen. This tragic loss should serve as a deterrent to others,” he stated.

Onuko further urged the public to take safety as a personal responsibility and help educate others about the risks involved.

“No precious life should be lost to such a preventable cause. Our sensitisation and enforcement activities are not acts of hostility but efforts to safeguard lives. I pray for the peaceful repose of the victim’s soul,” he added.