Workers and customers at Uyo business unit of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company located on Ekpenyong Street in the heart of the Akwa Ibom State capital, were stranded yesterday, as they arrived the office, only to find that the storey building was under lock and key.

Neighbours interviewed said they suspected that “the office must have been sealed off as early as 5 a.m.” to prevent anybody from gaining entry into the complex.

News Express reports that fresh plantain and banana trees were planted in front and around the office premises, while fresh palm fronds were also tied on the front gates of the building, signifying traditional injunction.

A tipper lorry later tipped sand at the entrance of the office and blocked it.

A middle-aged lady sighted near the building, who preferred anonymity, told newsmen that the electricity company had not paid rent “since August 2014”, adding that the building was so dilapidated and “the action is for them to vacate the house for prompt renovation.”

Customers of the electricity company who thronged a near-by office at Paul Bassey Street for enquiry as well as to clear their electricity bills, were told by the officials there to continue to transact their business there “for now, till further development.”

Some customers told News Express that they were “utterly dismayed and surprised” that “despite bloated monthly and unjustified bills, this company is not able to pay its office rents,” adding: “This is ridiculous.”

Efforts to speak to the Business Unit Manager of the company in Uyo, were not fruitful.