Nigeria has been facing a concerning trend of vandalism targeting national electricity assets, with five incidents reported between February and March 2024. The Transmission Company of Nigeria revealed this troubling information in a statement issued by its Manager of Public Affairs, Mbah Ndidi, following the most recent act of sabotage on the Shiroro-Katampe Transmission Line.
According to a report by Media Talk Africa, vandals successfully brought down the Shiroro-Katampe Transmission 330 Kilo Volt (kV) Line on a Sunday, marking the latest in a series of destructive acts. Just three weeks prior, vandals had targeted Tower 70 along the Gwagwalada-Katampe transmission line on February 26, 2024. This was followed by the vandalism of towers 377 and 378 along the Gombe-Damaturu 330kV transmission line on February 23, 2024, and an attack on towers 145 to 149 and 201 to 218 along the Owerri-Ahoda 132kV transmission line on February 15, 2024. Additionally, on February 1, 2024, Tower number 388 along the Jos-Bauchi 132kV single circuit transmission line collapsed due to vandalism.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria has condemned these acts of vandalism as nothing short of economic sabotage. They have called upon security agencies and local communities to work together in apprehending the perpetrators responsible for these destructive actions.
The frequency and severity of these incidents highlight the urgent need for increased vigilance and cooperation in protecting Nigeria’s critical infrastructure. The impact of such vandalism extends far beyond the immediate damage caused, affecting the reliability of the country’s electricity supply and ultimately hindering economic development.
As Nigeria grapples with these challenges, it is crucial for all stakeholders to unite in safeguarding the nation’s energy assets and ensuring a sustainable and secure future for all. Let us stand together against these destructive acts and strive towards a brighter and more resilient Nigeria.
