From David Onuoja, Abuja
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), said it has lossed about five transmission towers along the Ikot Abasi – Eket 132kV Double Circuit as a result of severe acts of vandalism.
In a statement released this morning by the general manager, Public Affairs Unit TCN, Ndidi Mbah said, the extensive damage was discovered during a routine joint line patrol conducted on August 9, 2026, by TCN linesmen.
According to the statement, the preliminary assessment indicated that critical structural bracing members were removed from Towers N9, N10, N11, N12, N13, and N15, resulting to the collapse of the five towers.
Further inspection again, revealed that structural members from seven additional towers along the same transmission corridor had also been removed and stolen. These towers are now structurally compromised and pose a risk of further collapse.
In order to mitigate the impact on electricity supply, TCN said the network has been reconfigured to prioritize supply from Ibom Power.
It also revealed that the Management is mobilizing an urgent intervention to complete the reconstruction of the affected sections of the line. While calling on security agencies to aid, investigate and prevent further acts of vandalism along the line route.
TCN condemned this act of sabotage and reiterate its commitment in working hard to maintain a robust and reliable national grid.

