Vandals have disrupted ongoing repair works on two critical power transmission lines in Bayelsa and Edo states, according to the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).
In a statement on Friday, TCN revealed that the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV line, already under repair following an earlier attack, was targeted again on November 19, 2024. Vandals stole approximately one-third of the conductor, affecting towers 29 to 31.
A team led by Engr. Emmanuel Akpa, General Manager of the Port Harcourt Region, inspected the site and found evidence that the theft occurred at night. To prevent further vandalism, TCN has engaged local security at Ula Ikata in Ahoada East Local Government Area to safeguard the site while repairs are underway.
“Additionally, the line will be energized from the Ahoada end as a preventive measure,” TCN stated, noting that efforts to replace the stolen 250mm conductor are ongoing. Despite difficult terrain and flooding, the restringing work on the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV line is now 85% complete.
Earlier in August, TCN reported that 13 towers along the same transmission line were vandalized, an incident first flagged by the Youth President of Ukpeli Community in Rivers State.
Similarly, TCN disclosed that vandals attacked transmission towers in Okada and Ofosu communities, impacting the 330kV Benin-Egbin and Benin-Omotosho transmission lines. A total of 31 towers were damaged, with critical components stolen.
“TCN engineers from the Benin Sub-Region have commenced emergency repairs to stabilize the affected towers and prevent disruptions to bulk power supply,” the company said.
The TCN emphasized that these acts of vandalism severely undermine the expansion and stability of Nigeria’s national grid.
“These incidents highlight the urgent need for collective action to combat the growing problem of vandalism and theft affecting the country’s power infrastructure,” the statement added.
The company urged the public to support its efforts in protecting critical infrastructure to ensure stable power supply and national development.