Terror Strikes Energy Towers: Maiduguri Left Without Power in Repeat Vandalism
In a disheartening act of destruction, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has reported the deliberate demolition of two key towers, T193 and T194, on the Damaturu-Maiduguri 330kV Single Circuit Transmission Line. This act of vandalism has resulted in a significant power outage in the region.
The incident occurred late last night at around 10:15 pm, just as the Molai Substation’s 150MVA power transformer tripped, along with the 330kV transmission line that supplies bulk electricity to Maiduguri from Damaturu. Attempts to restore the line were unsuccessful, leaving residents without power.
A patrol conducted early this morning by TCN engineers, accompanied by security personnel, revealed the cause of the outage: the towers had been destroyed using explosives, with evidence of the devices scattered around the site.
This event is not the first of its kind; it mirrors the attacks of December 28, 2023, when the same towers were targeted and destroyed using improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The towers had been reconstructed after the previous attack, only to be targeted once again.
TCN is currently assessing the extent of the damage and considering the most effective method for temporarily restoring power. Meanwhile, plans are underway to engage a contractor to rebuild the damaged towers.
In response to these repeated attacks, TCN, in a statement signed by its general manager, public affairs, Ndidi Mbah, is calling for increased protection of transmission towers and is seeking the support of the government and the public to prevent further destruction of vital national infrastructure.
