The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has reported that vandals targeted and brought down towers T372 and T373 on the Gombe-Damaturu 330kV SC transmission line.
TCN said the act of vandalism occurred around Katsaita Village in Yobe State on the evening of December 21, 2023, at approximately 21:18.
This malicious action, according to the statement made public by TCN, resulted in the collapse of the 330kV transmission tower (T372), subsequently pulling down tower T373 along the same transmission line route.
Adding that, the sabotage led to a significant power outage affecting parts of the Northeast region, specifically Yobe and Borno States.
TCN engineers, conducting routine patrols to identify the cause of the power disruption, they said, discovered the fallen towers, stating that “Villagers reported hearing a loud explosion before the tower collapse.”
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“Upon closer examination, evidence of explosive materials used by the vandals was found” the statement which was signed by Ndidi Mbah, GM Public Affairs, on behalf of TCN, read.
“In response to the crisis, TCN swiftly mobilized one of its contractors to the site for the reconstruction of the damaged transmission towers.”
Expressing strong condemnation for the incident, TCN extends its sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused to the government and people of Yobe and Borno States.
The company vows to expedite the restoration of power supply by quickly re-erecting the towers.
TCN emphasizes the urgent need for collaboration with host communities to combat vandalism and safeguard power infrastructure nationwide, emphasizing that these assets are collective responsibilities.
