The Transmission Company of Nigeria has successfully repaired and erected 13 of the 16 transmission towers that were vandalized along the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV transmission line.
This restoration effort marks a significant step toward enhancing the reliability of electricity transmission in the region and demonstrates TCN’s commitment to addressing infrastructure challenges caused by vandalism.
This was disclosed in a statement by TCN via its official X account on Thursday.
This development was revealed by the General Manager of TCN’s Port Harcourt Region, Emmanuel Akpa, during a meeting with the Secretary to the State Government of Bayelsa, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, and members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly on September 12.
Akpa has expressed deep regret over the recent vandalism of transmission towers, which has severely affected electricity supply in Bayelsa State.
“We’re pained that this act has put the good people of Bayelsa into untold hardship and has equally plunged TCN into huge financial debt,” Akpa said.
He also reported that the extent of destruction caused by recent vandalism is unprecedented in the director’s long career.
“In my 33 years of service, I have never seen this kind of colossal damage. It should be a national concern. Although vandalism is recorded across the country, the rate in this area is alarming,” Akpa stated.
To prevent future vandalism incidents, Akpa has called for enhanced collaboration between the state government and community leaders.
He urged local stakeholders to take greater responsibility for safeguarding infrastructure within their communities.
He appealed to the Bayelsa State government to “decisively address this issue to forestall future occurrences.”
The Assistant General Manager of TCN’s Port Harcourt Sub-Region, Benneth Ezemobi stated that a local vigilante group has been engaged to protect the site.
He disclosed that two vandals had already been apprehended for tampering with the newly rebuilt towers.
Ezemobi emphasized the critical need for securing the area to facilitate the smooth completion of repairs and restore bulk power to Bayelsa State.
In response to recent vandalism, Ayawei reaffirmed Bayelsa State’s commitment to protecting transmission towers.
He announced plans to deploy heavy security personnel and implement technology-based surveillance, including the procurement of internet-connected cameras, to monitor high-risk areas.
“Power is too critical, and without it, our job as a government is incomplete,” Ayawei remarked.
Ayawei highlighted the significant impact of recent vandalism on small businesses, including barbers and ice block sellers, in Bayelsa State.
