Several people have been electrocuted to death, at Amaechi-School Road junction in Rumuosi, along the East-West Road, Obio-Akpor local government area of Rivers State.
While some reports claim over six persons died from the electrocution, others say there were five casualties.
Some victims were also reported to have sustained several injuries from the electrocution.
An eyewitness told Kemi Filani News that the victims were trying to mount a church billboard at the junction when the iron from the board touched the high-tension pole.
According to the eyewitness, while some died instantly, others were rushed to a hospital, where they were confirmed dead by a doctor.
The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the incident and assured that the investigation is ongoing.
In the meantime, the Rivers State Signage and Advertising Agency has clarified that the agency had no prior knowledge of mounting the billboard.
RISAA reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards in allocating external signage and billboards within the state.
Kemi Filani News speaking with the Head of Mobile Advertising at RISAA, Okechukwu Edenkwo, said that the agency is determined to maintain these standards and professionalism.
“As an agency, we frown at it when people put up signage and structures without recourse to the agency.
“We are totally unaware of what led to what happened yesterday.
“In fact, they did not even apply to the agency, let alone get approval.”
Edenkwo also extended the agency’s sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who died from the electrocution of Monday.