Power Company Decries Encroachment and Sabotage of Transmission Facilities
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has raised concerns over increasing cases of vandalism and illegal encroachment on its power infrastructure in Kaduna State, warning that these activities threaten efforts to stabilize electricity supply across the country.
During a sensitization forum with traditional rulers, security agencies, and community leaders in Kaduna on Monday, TCN officials highlighted the dangers posed by unauthorized constructions under high-voltage transmission lines and repeated attacks on critical power installations. Engr. Nasir Mansur-Fada, General Manager of TCN’s Kaduna Region, emphasized that while the company is upgrading transformers and expanding transmission networks, vandalism and encroachment remain major setbacks.
“We are working hard to improve power supply, but our efforts are being undermined by those who destroy or illegally occupy transmission corridors,” Mansur-Fada stated. He urged communities to take ownership of power infrastructure, stressing that public cooperation is essential for safeguarding these assets.
Technical experts at the forum, including Mr. Simon Innocent and Mr. Yakubu Abdulrazaq, explained how illegal structures obstruct maintenance operations and increase risks of electrocution and fires. Mr. Kenneth John, TCN’s Senior Manager for Health, Safety, and Environment, warned residents against living or trading near transmission lines, noting the life-threatening dangers of high-voltage electricity.
To enhance surveillance, TCN introduced dedicated hotlines for reporting suspicious activities around power facilities. Hajiya Maimuna Isah, the company’s Public Affairs Officer, called on traditional leaders and youth groups to serve as frontline defenders against vandalism.
Sarkin Mando, Alhaji Sani Musa, representing Kaduna’s traditional rulers, pledged to mobilize community support, acknowledging that power disruptions ultimately harm local residents. TCN announced plans to extend the awareness campaign to other parts of the state, reinforcing the need for collective action to protect critical infrastructure and ensure reliable electricity supply.
