The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has raised an alarm over the increasing vandalism of critical power infrastructure in Ebonyi State, warning that continued attacks on transmission facilities can trigger widespread blackouts, economic losses and serious safety hazards.
Thomas Inugonum, the General Manager, Transmission Company, Enugu Region, gave the warning on Thursday during a sensitisation programme held at Ezza Umuhuali Town Hall in Ishielu Local Government Area of the State.
Addressing traditional rulers, community leaders, youths, security personnel and journalists, Inugonum urged residents of Ezza Umuhuali, Ezillo, Umuhuali and Nkalagu communities to take ownership of transmission facilities in their areas and work with authorities to safeguard them.
He described vandalism of transmission towers and related installations as a major threat to national development and reliable electricity supply, stressing that the practice had become a growing challenge across the country.
According to him, common violations affecting transmission infrastructure include the theft of components from 330kV and 132kV lines, illegal construction within transmission corridors, excavation around tower foundations, trading and residential activities beneath power lines, as well as bush burning near tower bases.
