Blackout Worsens as Bandits Destroy 31 TCN Transmission Towers in Edo State

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has reported the destruction of 31 transmission towers in Okada and Ofosu communities along the 330kV Benin-Egbin and Benin-Omotosho transmission lines in Edo State.

In a statement released on Friday, TCN’s Director of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, revealed that the towers were severely damaged, with critical components stolen during an attack earlier in November.

The damage was discovered by TCN linesmen conducting a routine patrol.

According to Mbah, repair work has commenced to prevent the towers from collapsing and to minimize disruptions to the power supply.

“A total of 31 towers were affected in this incident,” Mbah said. “TCN engineers from the Benin Sub-Region have initiated repairs to stabilize the affected structures and maintain bulk power transmission.”

She also disclosed that the 132kV Ahoada-Yenagoa line, which was previously under repair following another act of vandalism, has been attacked again, further compounding the challenges.

To address the recurring vandalism, TCN has deployed vigilantes to safeguard repair sites. The company has also urged local communities and security operatives to collaborate in protecting critical infrastructure.

“These incidents highlight the urgent need to tackle vandalism and theft, which continue to hinder the stability and growth of Nigeria’s power grid,” Mbah stated.

The TCN appealed for public support and vigilance to curb the rising threat to the country’s power infrastructure. Repair efforts are ongoing to restore stability and prevent further disruptions.