Vandals Disrupt Power on Lokoja–Gwagwalada Line, Deepening Nigeria’s Power Crisis
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), has reported yet another case of vandalism, this time targeting the vital 330kV Lokoja–Gwagwalada transmission line 1.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, November 9, 2024, disrupted bulk power transmission along the route, dealing a blow to efforts to stabilize Nigeria’s power grid.
According to TCN, the issue was detected when engineers attempted to re-energize the line, only for it to trip repeatedly.
Upon inspection, TCN’s linesmen discovered that vandals had stripped aluminum conductors from three transmission towers (T306, T307, and T308), further crippling the already fragile national grid.
While power is still being supplied through the second line on the Lokoja–Gwagwalada route, TCN is scrambling to replace the stolen aluminum conductors to restore full functionality.
However, this incident reflects a troubling surge in transmission line vandalism, especially around Gwagwalada.
Other recent attacks include strikes on the Gwagwalada–Kukuwaba–Apo line in December 2023 and the Gwagwalada–Katampe line in February 2024, leaving the grid’s stability and expansion in jeopardy.
With the country’s power infrastructure under threat, TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, has urged communities along transmission lines to collaborate with authorities to curb this menace, stressing that such acts are a disservice to all Nigerians.
TCN continues to appeal for public support and vigilance in protecting these crucial installations.
