Spike in Vandalism: Cross River and Rivers Transmission Lines Hit Repeatedly in 2-Month Spree, Says TCN

In a recent revelation by Dr. Thomas Inugonum, the head of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) in Port Harcourt, the vulnerability of transmission lines in Cross River and Rivers states has become a pressing issue, persisting for over two months. Expressing deep concern over the recurring vandalism, Dr. Inugonum emphasized the critical role of the transmission aspect in the power system, stressing the necessity of ensuring the safety of electricity-moving lines.

During a press briefing after inspecting the TCN’s facilities, Dr. Inugonum shed light on the repeated instances of transmission line damage in locations such as Calabar in Cross River State and Elelenwo in Rivers State. The situation escalated to the point where security agencies had to intervene to curb the ongoing attacks on vital power infrastructure.

Reports from Infostride News, formerly Nairametrics, indicate that the Transmission Company of Nigeria in the Port Harcourt Region is facing heightened anxiety about the security of its power transmission lines passing through various communities across the six states under its coverage. The concerns stem from individuals causing disruptions by tampering with these lines and engaging in theft of equipment, creating significant obstacles to efficient electricity transmission in states like Rivers, Imo, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Bayelsa.

Dr. Inugonum articulated the challenges faced by the TCN, stating, “Many times, we suffer from people attacking the transmission lines, destroying it, removing parts of the towers, making us not have the transportation done easily.” He recounted an incident where he and his colleagues had to venture into the bushes to inspect failed transmission lines, encountering hoodlums who had attacked both gas pipelines and transmission lines. Dr. Inugonum underscored the severity of the situation, revealing the potential danger faced by TCN personnel during these encounters.

Highlighting the broader issue, he pointed out that vandalization occurs regularly, citing instances where the right of way for transmission lines becomes a challenge due to community resistance when initiating projects. Dr. Inugonum appealed for the assistance of security agencies to safeguard electricity transmission assets within the states covered by the TCN Port Harcourt office.

In the broader context, the management team of TCN’s Port Harcourt Region recently convened their quarterly Regional Consultative Meeting with leaders of the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC). During this session, the safety of workers, particularly in light of the escalating insecurity in Owerri, Imo State, emerged as a central topic of discussion.

Assuring the union of TCN’s commitment to employee safety, Dr. Thomas Inugonum revealed ongoing collaboration with the State Commissioner of Police. The company is actively strategizing ways to enhance the security of TCN employees working in various project sites across the region, acknowledging the imperative to address the growing concerns related to the safety of personnel involved in the crucial task of maintaining and expanding Nigeria’s power infrastructure.