TCN decries rising cases of vandalism in Niger State

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has expressed deep concerns over the unprecedented and increasing vandalism of power transmission infrastructure in parts of Niger State, warning that the trend poses serious economic, safety and electricity supply challenges.

The General Manager, Transmission, Abuja Region, Engr. Musa Shuaibu, raised the alarm yesterday while speaking during a community engagement visit to Lambata in Gurara Local Government Area.

Shuaibu said repeated attacks on transmission facilities had become a major concern.

According to him, vandalism, previously uncommon in the area, has resulted in significant financial losses and disruption to power supply.

“We have been having challenges with our transmission lines. These lines have been vandalised repeatedly.

“It has never happened before in this area, but now it has become worrisome to all of us,” he said.

Shuaibu disclosed that about 14 spans of conductors on the 132kV transmission line in Lambata were recently vandalised, adding that repairs would cost about N32 million.

“This is money that could have been used to improve power infrastructure and electricity supply elsewhere,” he said.

He explained that the over 40-year-old transmission line is a critical infrastructure transporting electricity from Shiroro through Minna, Bida and Suleja to Abuja, stressing that its destruction undermines economic activities, discourages investments and affects revenue generation.

He also warned of safety risks associated with fallen conductors, noting that residual voltage could endanger residents, farmers and livestock.

Shuaibu called on traditional rulers, community leaders, vigilante groups and security agencies to support efforts to protect critical national assets.

Representatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Police pledged continued collaboration in arresting and prosecuting vandals and their collaborators.