By Oke Peter
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) announced the vandalization and destruction of two of its transmission towers, T377 and T378, along the Gombe – Damaturu 330kV transmission line on February 23, 2024.
This act, perpetrated by insurgents, resulted in a load loss of approximately 5MW.
In a statement signed by the GM of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah on Sunday. “At approximately 9:35 pm yesterday, the Gombe – Damaturu 330kV transmission line experienced a trip. Following initial checks, TCN engineers from the Bauchi regional office attempted the restoration of the line but it tripped again, prompting the dispatch of TCN’s linesmen and security operatives to trace the fault. The team, then discovered the two collapsed towers, T377 and T378.”
Scene of the vandalized tower.
“In the interim, TCN has arranged to temporarily supply electricity to Damaturu from the Potiskum Transmission Substation. Meanwhile, arrangements are underway to mobilize contractors that will re-erect the vandalized transmission towers and restring the 330kV line affected by the incident.”
TCN, however, condemns the act of sabotage and is again calling on relevant authorities to intensify efforts in the protection of power infrastructures.
“We are committed to working diligently to expedite the restoration process and minimize the impact of this unfortunate incident the on power supply to the affected areas,” the statement said.
