TCN Urges Communities to Help Stop Vandalism of Power Infrastructure

The Transmission Company of Nigeria has called on residents, especially those in rural communities, to support efforts aimed at protecting electricity infrastructure from vandalism across the country.

The General Manager of TCN Benin Region, Charles Iwuamadi, made the appeal during an engagement with members of the Itele community in Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State on Friday.

Represented by the Assistant General Manager, Technical Services, TCN Benin Region, Matthew Ariyibi, Iwuamadi said vandalism of power installations continues to disrupt electricity supply and drains resources meant for national development.

According to him, transmission facilities located in rural communities are highly vulnerable to vandalism and illegal activities, making community collaboration essential in safeguarding the infrastructure.

He explained that transmission lines pass through several villages and communities across the country, noting that residents are often the first to notice suspicious activities or faults affecting the installations.

“Whether it is the tower base, conductors or any other equipment, residents of host communities see the issues before informing us. That is why we are here to educate residents on the importance of safeguarding these facilities so we can continue serving the nation effectively,” he said.

Iwuamadi disclosed that patrol teams had already detected cases involving tampering and removal of tower components, warning that such acts pose serious threats to lives and the national grid.

“Our patrol teams have discovered cases where tower members were removed or tampered with. Fortunately, we have not experienced any severe incidents leading to tower collapse. That is why we are carrying out this sensitisation. When you see something, say something,” he added.

He also warned residents against building houses or other structures beneath transmission lines, describing the practice as extremely dangerous and capable of causing death.

The TCN official further stated that the company had strengthened surveillance around its installations by collaborating with local vigilantes and traditional rulers in host communities.

On the legal implications, Ariyibi stressed that vandalism remains a serious offence punishable under the law.

Also speaking, the Principal Manager, Health, Safety and Environment, Otaru Abamiyo, described transmission facilities as critical national assets essential for economic growth and development.

He warned that destruction of power infrastructure negatively affects electricity supply, weakens the economy, and exposes communities to insecurity and hardship.