An employee of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), Mustapha Isa, lost his life on May 29, 2025, after being electrocuted while addressing a power fault at the company’s Mabushi office. The tragic event, which unfolded around 5:50 p.m., has raised serious questions about workplace safety protocols and the risks faced by utility workers who keep Nigeria’s power infrastructure running.
The Incident
Mustapha Isa, a dedicated AEDC technician, was dispatched to resolve a reported power fault at the company’s Mabushi office, located in one of Abuja’s bustling districts. According to eyewitness accounts and official reports, Isa was working diligently to restore electricity when the unthinkable happened. While perched atop an electricity pole, he came into contact with a live wire, resulting in a severe electric shock. The force of the electrocution caused him to lose his balance, leading to a catastrophic fall from the pole. Tragically, Isa sustained a fatal head injury upon impact.
Colleagues and bystanders quickly rushed to his aid, and he was immediately transported to Gwarinpa General Hospital, one of the nearest medical facilities. Despite the swift response, medical personnel were unable to revive him, and he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The news of his passing has left his family, friends, and coworkers in mourning, while sparking a broader conversation about the dangers faced by electrical workers in Nigeria.
A Glimpse into Mustapha Isa’s Life
While little has been publicly shared about Isa’s personal life, sources close to AEDC describe him as a hardworking and committed employee who took pride in his role. Colleagues noted his professionalism and willingness to tackle challenging tasks, often working under pressure to restore power to communities. His untimely death has left a void in the AEDC workforce, with many expressing their grief and calling for justice in the form of improved safety measures.
The Risks of the Job: A Dangerous Profession
The electrocution of Mustapha Isa underscores the inherent dangers faced by electrical workers, who often work in high-risk environments to maintain and repair power infrastructure. Handling live wires, working at heights, and operating in unpredictable conditions are all part of the job, but these tasks carry significant risks. According to industry experts, electrocution is one of the leading causes of death among utility workers globally, with inadequate safety equipment, insufficient training, or unexpected equipment failures often contributing to such tragedies.
In Nigeria, where power outages and infrastructure challenges are commonplace, AEDC employees like Isa are frequently called upon to address faults under tight deadlines. The pressure to restore electricity quickly can sometimes lead to lapses in safety protocols, putting workers’ lives at risk. This incident has reignited discussions about the need for stricter adherence to safety standards, including the provision of proper personal protective equipment (PPE), regular maintenance of infrastructure, and comprehensive training for workers.
AEDC’s Response and Public Reaction
As of now, AEDC has not issued a detailed public statement regarding the incident, but sources within the company indicate that an internal investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances that led to Isa’s death. Questions are being raised about whether Isa was equipped with adequate safety gear, such as insulated gloves, harnesses, or non-conductive tools, and whether the electricity pole and surrounding infrastructure were in proper working condition.
The public response to the tragedy has been one of sorrow and frustration. On social media platforms like X, Nigerians have expressed their condolences to Isa’s family while calling for accountability from AEDC and other electricity distribution companies. Many have pointed out that this is not an isolated incident, citing similar cases of electrocution involving utility workers across the country. Posts on X have also highlighted the need for systemic reforms in the power sector, including better working conditions and compensation for families of workers who lose their lives on the job.
For now, the focus remains on honoring Mustapha Isa’s memory and supporting his grieving family. His dedication to his work and his tragic sacrifice will not be forgotten, and his story serves as a powerful call to action for a safer, more equitable future for Nigeria’s utility workers.
Join our Whatsapp channel to stay updated always!
