There is growing public outrage over the alleged assault of an Aba Power staff member, Ubochi Onyinyechi, by Mr. Chidi Ehiemere, a former Auditor General of Abia State.
Mr. Ehiemere, who also previously served as Chairman of Obingwa Local Government Area and is an elder in the United Evangelical Church (Qua Iboe), is accused of violently attacking Ms. Ubochi during a routine field operation in Obingwa LGA.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for justice.
According to eyewitnesses and company sources, Ms. Ubochi was lawfully disconnecting electricity at Mr. Ehiemere’s residence due to persistent underpayment of electricity bills when she was allegedly attacked by the defendant and members of his household.
An anonymous source familiar with the case claimed that Mr. Ehiemere is a serial defaulter, reportedly paying less than half of his monthly electricity charges. Specifically, he allegedly paid ₦15,000 instead of the ₦44,000 billed for the previous month’s consumption.
“On the day of the incident, the Aba Power staff member was simply performing her duties. Rather than comply or seek lawful redress, Mr. Ehiemere and his children assaulted her, beat her, and tore her clothes in broad daylight,” the source said.
Following his arrest, Mr. Ehiemere was arraigned at Magistrate Court 3, Aba North, on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, on a five-count charge including conspiracy, assault, malicious damage, and stealing. He pleaded not guilty. The case has been adjourned to August 6, 2025.
Community members have expressed disappointment over the incident.
“We see these people come out every day under sun and rain to improve electricity supply and engage with us respectfully. What happened to that lady was a disgrace, and we are glad that justice is taking its course,” said Mrs. Gladys Nwankwo, a trader in Uratta.
Mr. Bassey Friday, popularly known as Friday Chop, a food vendor in the area, added: “That man should have been more considerate. Laying hands on a woman—for someone who once held public office and is a church elder—is shameful.”
Reacting to the development, Kenneth Agu, Chief Security Officer at Aba Power, condemned the incident and praised the swift response of security agencies and the judiciary.
“We strongly condemn any form of violence against our staff, who are simply carrying out their duties. We appreciate the community members who provided critical information to support this case. Aba Power remains committed to serving Aba with integrity and professionalism,” he said.
Mr. Agu also warned that attacks on utility workers will not be tolerated.
“Our duty is to protect our staff and ensure that anyone who violates the law is brought to justice. This case will be pursued to its legal conclusion,” he stated.
Edise Ekong, Manager, Branding and Communication at Aba Power, urged customers to exercise restraint and mutual respect.
“Our marketers and field officers are here to assist, not to harm. We commend the community for its support and ask for continued cooperation in creating a safe working environment,” he said.
In his remarks, Barr. Charles Torti, Head of Legal and Regulatory Compliance at Aba Power, commended law enforcement and the judiciary for their prompt actions.
“We are encouraged by the swift arraignment and the seriousness with which the court is handling this case. We believe in the Nigerian justice system and are confident that justice will be served.”
Aba Power has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on assault, vandalism, and harassment, calling on the public to support efforts toward a safer and more efficient electricity distribution system in Aba.