Blackout hits Akwa Ibom as vandals destroy power transmission tower

The Ete Community in the Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, is currently experiencing a complete blackout due to ...

The Ete Community in the Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, is currently experiencing a complete blackout due to the destructive actions of vandals targeting critical electricity infrastructure. This incident has triggered widespread concern about the security of power transmission facilities and the impact on local communities.

Tower Collapse and Investigation

The incident came to light following the collapse of Tower T35 along the Eket-Ikot Abasi 132 kV Transmission Line on October 12th. An inspection team dispatched by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to the site in Ete Community uncovered a disturbing scene. Numerous components of the tower had been dismantled and scattered on the ground, indicating deliberate sabotage. Further investigation revealed that additional structural elements had been removed entirely, presumably stolen.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, the inspection team also discovered evidence of tampering with Towers T7, T33, and T34 along the same transmission line. This suggests a coordinated effort to cripple the power infrastructure in the region.

Impact on Power Supply

The collapse of Tower T35 has had immediate and severe consequences for the power supply in the area. Specifically, it has resulted in a temporary disruption of bulk power supply through the Eket and Ekim 132/33 kV Transmission Substations, as well as the Ibom Power Station.

This disruption directly affects the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company's (PHED) ability to draw power from these substations and distribute it to its customers in Eket and Ekim towns. Consequently, residents and businesses in these areas are currently without electricity.

TCN's Response and Restoration Efforts

The Transmission Company of Nigeria has responded to the crisis by initiating the mobilization of resources for the reconstruction and restoration of the collapsed tower and transmission line. The TCN aims to expedite the repair process and restore power supply to the affected communities as quickly as possible. However, the extent of the damage and the logistical challenges involved mean that the restoration process could take a significant amount of time.

The Pervasive Threat of Vandalism

The TCN has emphasized that vandalism represents a significant and ongoing threat to the stability of the nation's power transmission system. The company has issued a strong appeal to host communities to exercise vigilance and report any suspicious activities observed around transmission installations to security agencies or the nearest TCN office.

The TCN views the fight against vandalism of power infrastructure as a collective responsibility, urging all stakeholders to collaborate in protecting these critical national assets from further attacks. This includes community leaders, law enforcement, and the general public.

Financial Burden of Vandalism

The financial impact of vandalism on Nigeria's power infrastructure is substantial. The TCN recently disclosed that the Federal Government has spent approximately N88 billion on the repair and restoration of vandalized power transmission facilities across the country from 2021 to the present. This staggering figure highlights the economic drain caused by these criminal acts. In 2024 alone, the TCN spent N8.8 billion on repairs necessitated by vandalism. These funds could have been invested in expanding and upgrading the power grid, rather than simply repairing damage.

Calls for Stricter Penalties

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has called on the National Assembly to enact legislation that would impose more severe penalties on individuals convicted of vandalism. The current laws are seen as inadequate to deter these crimes, and stricter punishments are needed to send a strong message that vandalism will not be tolerated. Increased penalties could include longer prison sentences and substantial fines. A comprehensive approach involving tougher laws, enhanced security measures, and community engagement is essential to protect Nigeria's power infrastructure and ensure a reliable electricity supply for all citizens. The incident in Ete Community serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the power grid and the urgent need for action.