Electrocution reportedly led to the deaths of five people while attempting to mount a billboard in Rumuosi’s Obiri-Ikwerre axis of Rivers State’s Obio/Akpor Local Government Area on Monday.
In addition, four others who suffered life-threatening burns are fighting for their lives at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, where they were rushed for treatment.
The billboard, a big outdoor advertisement, was said to have a metal frame that allegedly touched a high-tension cable, generating a spark.
The nine victims were alleged to have hoisted the massive structure when a metal component of it came into contact with the cable and promptly transmitted current.
Five of them were killed by the current, while four others were said to be in critical condition.
The victims were alleged to be private businessmen hired to install a religious billboard.
Speaking on the incident, Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the state police command, verified the event and described it as regrettable.
She stated, Yes, we are aware. It is very unfortunate. The investigation is ongoing to ascertain what really happened.”
