Vandals Bring Down Five Power Towers in Akwa Ibom, TCN Laments

The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, has disclosed that vandals have destroyed five transmission towers along the Ikot Abasi-Eket 132kV Double Circuit Transmission Line in Akwa Ibom State. This revelation was made after a joint patrol of the transmission line by TCN linesmen on August 9, 2026. According to TCN, the vandalism led to the removal of critical structural bracing members from Towers N9, J4, N10, N11, and N12, ultimately causing the collapse of these towers. In a statement, the company explained that 'preliminary assessment indicates that critical structural bracing members were removed from Towers N9, J4, N10, N11 and N12, resulting in the collapse of five towers.' Further investigation revealed that seven other towers, identified as J3, N8, N13, N14, N15, N18, and N19, had also been compromised due to the theft of structural members, leaving them at risk of collapse. To mitigate the impact on electricity supply, TCN has reconfigured the network to prioritize supply to the Ekim transmission station, although this means Ibom Power station will be left without supply. The company is working on an urgent intervention to reconstruct the damaged sections of the transmission line and restore normal operations. TCN has condemned the act of sabotage and reiterated its commitment to maintaining a robust and reliable national grid. The company has also notified security agencies to support investigations and prevent further vandalism along the transmission route. TCN urged stakeholders and security agencies to remain vigilant in protecting critical electricity infrastructure and preventing disruptions to power supply.