Suspected electricity vandals have escalated their attacks on the nation’s capital city, Abuja, with reports of the bombing of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) Tower 70 along the 330KV Gwagwalada-Katampe transmission line in the Federal Capital Territory.
The devastating incident has significantly diminished the flexibility of bulk power supply and the volume of power flowing into Abuja by 250 MW, as disclosed by TCN’s spokesperson, Ndidi Mbah.
Ndidi explained that the incident occurred around 11:32 pm on February 26th, prompting the company to dispatch a patrol team after an unsuccessful attempt to reclose the power trip at the Gwagwalada Substation.
She further stated that the tower currently stands precariously, supported only by conductors, posing a serious risk to the stability of the power transmission network.
“The sad incident occurred on the 26th of February, 2024, at about 11.32 pm. At the said time, the Gwagwalada – Katampe Transmission line tripped at Gwagwalada Transmission Substation and trial reclosure by TCN Operators failed, necessitating a physical patrol of the line.
“The TCN lines and patrol team discovered that the four (4) tower footings of Tower 70 were bombed, destroying the tower legs and causing the tower to stand on the ground, supported by conductors.”
Mbah revealed that the company has swiftly mobilized to the location to initiate emergency repairs, while also urging citizens to remain vigilant.
“Meanwhile, TCN has mobilised to the site of the incident and has commenced an emergency repair of the damaged tower and its associated equipment.
“We reiterate the need for vigilance in the fight against vandalism of power equipment. It is important that we report suspicious movements around all power equipment to security operatives or to the nearest TCN offices nationwide.”
