The Transmission Company of Nigeria has confirmed the destruction of 14 sections of its 132-kilovolt transmission line in the Lambata axis of Gurara Local Government Area, raising fresh concerns over repeated attacks on electricity infrastructure.
The affected facility, located in , is part of a major transmission route that supplies electricity from the Shiroro axis through key towns such as Minna, Bida, and Suleja to Abuja. Officials say the damage has disrupted power movement along this corridor, which supports homes, businesses, and critical services.
TCN officials explained that the vandalised sections have been targeted by unknown individuals who remove conductors for sale. They warned that such acts are slowing down efforts to improve electricity supply and forcing the company to divert funds meant for expansion into repairs.
The agency estimated that restoring the damaged infrastructure would cost tens of millions of naira, depending on how the repairs are carried out. It also warned that prolonged outages could affect hospitals, small businesses, and industrial activities that rely on stable electricity.
Beyond economic losses, officials stressed that damaged high-voltage lines pose serious safety risks, as fallen or exposed conductors can still carry dangerous levels of electricity. Farmers and residents living near transmission routes were urged to stay alert and avoid contact with any downed cables.
Security agencies, including police officers, civil defence personnel, and local vigilante groups, have been deployed to strengthen surveillance around vulnerable transmission corridors. Community leaders have also been engaged to support monitoring efforts and report suspicious movements.
Authorities further disclosed that several suspects linked to similar vandalism cases are currently facing prosecution, while others are being held in custody as investigations continue.
TCN called for stronger community involvement, urging residents to treat power infrastructure as a shared national asset and report anyone tampering with it.
