- The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has begun repairs on the Yenagoa-Ahoada-Owerri transmission lines in Bayelsa State following damage caused by vandals on August 1.
- Bayelsa State officials inspected the ongoing repairs and called for increased vigilance and non-politicisation of the issue.
- The Minister of Power, Bayelsa, Rivers State officials and TCN representatives have scheduled a meeting to discuss measures to protect power infrastructure and prevent further vandalism.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has started repairing the Yenagoa-Ahoada-Owerri transmission lines damaged by vandals in Igbogene, Bayelsa State. Vandals struck on August 1, plunging Yenagoa and surrounding areas into darkness. Recent acts of vandalism in neighbouring Rivers State also worsened the situation.
Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information, Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, visited the site to assess the damage and inspect the ongoing repairs alongside Olice Kemenanabo, Managing Director of the Bayelsa Electricity Company. She condemned the vandals’ actions and urged residents to stay vigilant.
Koku-Obiyai and Kemenanabo praised TCN’s quick response. They urged residents not to politicise the issue, emphasising the need to restore power swiftly.
The Commissioner highlighted the power outage’s impact on the local economy and daily life. She stressed the need to protect critical infrastructure to prevent future disruptions. Koku-Obiyai called for stronger community cooperation to safeguard public assets.
In response to the vandalism, officials scheduled a meeting between the Minister of Power, Bayelsa and Rivers States, and TCN representatives. The conference will address measures to protect power infrastructure and prevent further incidents.
Residents expressed frustration over the prolonged power outage, which disrupted businesses and daily activities. Many are worried about the impact on local industries and services that rely heavily on electricity. The power outage also affected water supply, as electric pumps power distribution in many areas.
Community leaders urged increased vigilance and encouraged residents to report suspicious activities near power installations. They appealed to the government for more security around critical infrastructure.
The Bayelsa State government pledged to work closely with TCN and other agencies to ensure swift repairs. They also plan to strengthen security around power installations to prevent future vandalism.
As repairs continue, residents hope for a quick restoration of power. The situation highlighted the region’s need for a more resilient power infrastructure. Many called for investments in alternative energy sources to reduce reliance on the national grid and improve energy security.
Once completed, the ongoing repairs at Igbogene will restore power to Yenagoa and surrounding areas. The Bayelsa State government assured residents of its efforts to expedite the process and minimise further disruptions.
Authorities urged residents to remain patient and cooperate with repair teams. They emphasised the importance of community involvement in protecting public assets and ensuring reliable essential services.
The incident sparked discussions about the broader challenges in Nigeria’s power sector. Experts believe addressing issues like vandalism and infrastructure decay requires coordinated efforts from the government, private industry, and communities.
The upcoming meeting between the Minister of Power, Bayelsa and Rivers State officials, and TCN representatives represents a crucial step in tackling these challenges. Stakeholders hope the discussions will bring concrete actions to protect power infrastructure and improve the region’s electricity supply.