Edo: Man in court for allegedly assaulting BEDC official

A man identified as Samuel Bernard has been charged to court for allegedly assaulting two officials of BEDC Electricity Plc during a meter bypass monitoring exercise in Benin City, Edo state.

The BEDC officials, Chibuzor Japhet and Anthony Kido, were reportedly carrying out the inspecting exercise at Say-Eke DSS on Meter No. 04220025763 when they discovered two cases of alleged meter bypass.

BEDC spokesperson, Mrs Evelyn Gbiwen, who disclosed this in a statement Wednesday, said, “Bernard became angry following the discovery and attacked the officials, tearing their clothes in the process.”

The company further alleged that Kido’s Infinix mobile phone, valued at N120,000, and a shirt worth N20,000 were damaged during the confrontation.

According to the BEDC spokesman, the incident was reported at Ugbor Police Station, leading to Bernard’s arrest on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

Gbiwen said Bernard was subsequently arraigned before the Oredo Magistrate Court, Sapele Road, Benin City, on Monday, October 5, on a two-count charge of assault and malicious destruction of property.

She stated that the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges and was remanded in custody, with the case adjourned until October 29, 2026, for further hearing.

Gbiwen expressed concern over the safety of BEDC personnel who regularly visit homes, business premises and communities to conduct meter inspections, monitoring and other electricity-related assignments.

She warned against molestation, assault or any form of violence against any of our staff carrying out their lawful duties.

The spokesman however emphasised that the BEDC said remained committed to providing professional services to its customers while protecting its workers and assets.