The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has raised alarm over the increasing vandalism of electricity infrastructure in Niger State, revealing that criminals have destroyed 14 spans of its 132-kilovolt transmission line in the Lambata axis of Gurara Local Government Area.
Speaking during a security and community engagement meeting in Lambata, the General Manager of Transmission, Abuja Region, Musa Shuaibu, described the attacks as economic sabotage capable of disrupting electricity supply, threatening lives, and slowing economic development in the state.
According to Shuaibu, the affected transmission line, which links Shiroro, Minna, Bida, Suleja and the Federal Capital Territory, has operated for nearly four decades without major interference until recent attacks by vandals targeting its conductors.
He disclosed that restoring the damaged infrastructure would cost approximately ₦32 million, warning that the amount could increase if awarded through a contract.
Shuaibu noted that vandalism of transmission facilities affects electricity supply to homes, hospitals, businesses and industries, while also posing serious safety risks to residents and farmers due to possible residual voltage from damaged conductors.
He further revealed that 19 suspects arrested for vandalising TCN assets within the Abuja Region are currently being held at the Kuje Correctional Centre awaiting trial, stressing that offenders face severe legal consequences.
The TCN official appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies and residents to collaborate in protecting critical national infrastructure and reporting suspicious activities around transmission corridors.
Also speaking, a representative of the Nigeria Police Force, ASP Galadima Edward, described transmission facilities as critical national assets and urged communities to work closely with security agencies to curb the menace.
Meanwhile, the District Head of Izom in Gurara Local Government Area, Alhaji Ibrahim Salihu, pledged the support of traditional institutions in mobilising residents and vigilante groups to safeguard government property and report criminal activities.
Authorities say protecting transmission infrastructure remains essential for sustaining electricity supply, attracting investment and supporting economic growth in Niger State.
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Crime