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…TCN Races to Rebuild Damaged Towers, Seven Others at Risk of Collapse

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has raised the alarm over extensive vandalism along the Ikot Abasi–Eket 132kV Double Circuit Transmission Line, following the collapse of five transmission towers after critical structural components were removed by vandals.

The development has raised fresh concerns over the security of critical electricity infrastructure and the potential impact of vandalism on power supply in parts of the country.

According to TCN, the extensive damage was uncovered during a routine joint patrol of the transmission corridor by its linesmen on August 9, 2026.

A preliminary assessment showed that vital structural bracing members had been removed from Towers N9, J4, N10, N11 and N12, weakening the structures and ultimately causing all five towers to collapse.

The company said further inspection of the transmission corridor revealed that structural components had also been removed from seven other towers, leaving them severely compromised and vulnerable to collapse.

The affected structures are identified as Towers J3, N8, N13, N14, N15, N18 and N19.

The latest incident highlights the growing threat posed by the theft and destruction of critical electricity infrastructure, with damaged transmission facilities capable of disrupting power supply and imposing significant reconstruction costs.

In a move to minimise the effect of the collapsed towers on electricity supply, TCN said it had reconfigured the network to prioritise supply to Ekim Transmission Station.

The reconfiguration, however, has left Ibom Power as the only station currently without supply.

TCN Management said it was mobilising an urgent intervention to facilitate the reconstruction of the affected sections of the transmission line and restore the integrity of the corridor.

The company also disclosed that relevant security agencies had been notified to assist with investigations and strengthen security along the affected transmission route.

Condemning the incident, TCN described the destruction and theft of critical transmission components as an act of sabotage capable of undermining the stability and reliability of the national electricity grid.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a robust and reliable transmission network while urging greater vigilance and support from relevant stakeholders in protecting critical national infrastructure.

The latest incident comes amid persistent concerns over the impact of infrastructure vandalism on

Nigeria’s power sector, with transmission facilities particularly vulnerable to theft and deliberate destruction in several parts of the country.
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