By Mary Izuaka

 

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has commenced urgent rehabilitation of towers J4 and N9 to N12 along the Ikot Abasi–Eket 132kV double-circuit transmission line following recent vandalism.

TCN disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

Vandalism of transmission infrastructure has remained one of the biggest threats to Nigeria’s power sector.

Last month, TCN announced the collapse of five transmission towers along the Ikot Abasi–Eket 132kV double-circuit transmission line, following what it described as “severe acts of vandalism.”

At the time, the company said the extensive damage was discovered during a routine joint line patrol conducted on 9 August by its linesmen.

“Preliminary assessment indicates that critical structural bracing members were removed from Towers N9, N10, N11, N12, N13, and N15, resulting in the collapse of five towers,” TCN said at the time.

The transmission company said further inspection revealed that structural members from seven additional towers along the same transmission corridor had also been removed and stolen.

On Monday, the company said the work began after a site inspection on Friday. TCN said its Regional Manager, Nasir Bello, represented by the Assistant General Manager, Transmission, Port Harcourt Region, Ubani Raymond, led the inspection to ensure adherence to engineering specifications.

Mr Raymond said significant progress had been made on the rehabilitation works, noting that the vandalised towers had been completely dismantled, while the tower bases had been solidly recast.

READ ALSO: Vandalism: Five transmission towers collapse along Ikot Abasi–Eket 132kV line — TCN

He urged residents of Ikot Abasi to remain vigilant and protect critical power infrastructure within their communities from criminal elements.

Also speaking at the site, the Head of Lines, Port Harcourt Transmission Region, Azuh Lucky, emphasised the need for rigorous monitoring to ensure compliance with engineering standards and guarantee quality.

Mr Lucky commended TCN management for engaging two contractors to fast-track execution, but noted that challenging terrain and persistent rainfall had limited the pace of work.

The Principal Manager, Uyo Work Centre, Eguaikhide Clement, expressed satisfaction with the progress of the works and commended the contractors for their commitment.

The rehabilitation is expected to restore stable power supply along the Ikot Abasi-Eket corridor once completed.