Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, has recorded a significant win in its ongoing campaign to protect critical electricity infrastructure, following the arrest of five suspected vandals along the Otukpo–Yandev 132kV transmission line in Upu Community, Otukpo Local Government Area, Benue State.
The suspects were apprehended by local vigilantes, while attempting to vandalize towers N16 and N17 in Asa 3 Community. Preliminary investigations revealed that the vandals had also caused damage to eight other towers along the line.
Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, said the arrests underscore the importance of community collaboration in safeguarding Nigeria’s power infrastructure.
“We commend the Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, community leaders, youths, and members of the local vigilante group for their proactive role in apprehending these suspects. This partnership is key to protecting our critical transmission assets,” Mbah said.
The suspects, along with dismembered parts of transmission towers and other recovered materials, have been handed over to the Benue State Police Command for further investigation and prosecution.
Meanwhile, TCN confirmed that the damaged section of the line has been isolated, and bulk power supply has been restored to Yandev, Wukari, Takum, and Kashimbila Transmission Substations via the Apir Substation. The Otukpo Substation is being backfed from the New Heaven Substation to ensure uninterrupted service.
Vandalism of transmission lines not only disrupts power supply but also increases the operational costs for electricity distributors and consumers, especially in regions dependent on stable power for businesses and industries.
“Vandalism affects economic activity directly,” said an energy consultant in Port Harcourt. “Every hour of downtime means higher operational costs for industries, and increased reliance on generators drives energy costs up for businesses and households.”
TCN has pledged to continue its community engagement strategy to protect transmission lines and reduce disruptions across the national grid.
The Otukpo–Yandev line is a strategic feeder serving several states in the North-Central and South-South regions, highlighting the economic importance of securing the infrastructure.
“We are committed to sustaining this synergy with the community. Our focus is not just on arresting vandals but on ensuring a reliable power supply that supports economic growth,” Mbah added.
