Efforts to restore power to Damaturu, the capital of Yobe State, and neighboring communities are advancing steadily following the recent vandalism of a major power tower, The Trumpet reports.
Yobe State was plunged into darkness after a critical Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) 330kV tower was deliberately damaged by unknown vandals, causing widespread power outages. The incident left businesses and residents in Damaturu and its surrounding areas grappling with severe disruptions.
Governor Mai Mala Buni, responding to the crisis, swiftly directed the immediate restoration of electricity to the affected regions. According to the latest updates, significant progress has been made in the ongoing repair and restoration efforts.
Engineer Mustapha Goniri, General Manager of the Rural Electrification Board (REB), confirmed during an on-site inspection in Potiskum Local Government Area that the state government is working tirelessly to resolve the power crisis. “Governor Buni has mandated the REB to work closely with the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) and the TCN to expedite the power restoration process,” Goniri stated.
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He further revealed that electricity is being partially restored through the Potiskum Injecting Sub-station, while repairs on the damaged 330kV tower continue at a rapid pace. Goniri praised the commitment of the engineers on the ground and reassured residents that full power restoration is imminent.
The TCN had earlier disclosed that the vandalism occurred on Sunday, September 21, 2024, targeting tower No. T372 along the Gombe-Damaturu-Maiduguri 330kV transmission line. The blackout has severely affected local businesses, with many eagerly awaiting the resumption of normal activities.
As restoration work progresses, engineers remain optimistic that the power outage will soon be a thing of the past. Goniri urged residents to be patient, emphasizing that the Buni administration is fully committed to ensuring a stable power supply for the entire state.