Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, says vandalism has led to the collapse of a major transmission tower along the Ughelli–Benin 330kV line, disrupting bulk power supply to the national grid.
According to TCN, Tower T99 caved in on March 15 after critical components were removed by vandals in Coconut Village, Effurun LGA of Delta State.
“Upon inspection, it was observed that the fallen tower had some of its bracing members vandalised and carted away, which led to its collapse,” the agency said.
The incident, discovered during a routine patrol following a line trip, also affected adjacent towers.
“Adjoining towers T100 and T101 were also vandalized although they remain standing,” TCN added.
The damage has temporarily hindered the evacuation of electricity generated by Transcorp Power Plc to the national grid through the affected transmission line.
TCN said efforts are underway to restore supply.
“We have commenced mobilisation of resources to facilitate the reconstruction, restoration, and reinforcement of the vandalized towers and affected transmission line as soon as possible,” the statement noted.
The company warned that attacks on power infrastructure pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s electricity stability and called on communities to support surveillance efforts.
“The fight against vandalism of power infrastructure is a collective responsibility,” it said, urging residents to report suspicious activities to security agencies.
