The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, says it has arrested more than 30 people suspected of vandalising electricity transmission infrastructure as it steps up efforts to protect power facilities across the country.
The company is also increasing public awareness campaigns to encourage communities to protect transmission towers and other electricity installations from damage.
Speaking during an awareness campaign in Kano on Wednesday, TCN General Manager Muhammad Kamal-Bello called on residents to work with the company to safeguard electricity infrastructure.
The News Agency of Nigeria, Nan, reports that the event attracted government officials, traditional and religious leaders, artisans, civil society groups, youths, media representatives and other electricity consumers.
The campaign highlighted the dangers of vandalism, illegal construction near transmission facilities, electrocution, fire outbreaks and the possible collapse of transmission towers. Participants were also informed about how damage to electricity infrastructure could affect power supply.
Kamal-Bello said the company had received considerable support from communities along the Kumbotso-Zaria transmission line.
“The company has enjoyed substantial cooperation from communities along the Kumbotso-Zaria transmission line.
“TCN has apprehended more than 30 suspected vandals in its efforts to protect transmission infrastructure,” he said.
He warned that digging near transmission towers could weaken their foundations, potentially causing them to collapse and disrupting electricity supply.
The general manager praised traditional institutions, security agencies and other stakeholders for their support, stressing that protecting electricity infrastructure required the collective efforts of everyone.
He urged residents to remain alert and report suspicious activities around transmission towers and other electricity installations to the relevant authorities.
Also speaking, the Hakimin Gunduwawan Paki, Alhaji Ja’afaru Aliyu-Paki, described electricity as vital to development, infrastructure and security.
He appealed to community members to help protect substations and other electricity facilities from vandalism.
TCN arrests over 30 suspected vandals, urges Kano residents to protect power facilities