Armed men suspected to be bandits attacked the ongoing construction site of a 330/132/33kV transmission substation in Obajana, Kogi State, on Tuesday night, resulting in significant damage and disruption to government efforts to enhance power generation.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) confirmed the incident in a statement signed by General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, revealing that the attack occurred at approximately 11:55 PM on November 12, 2024. The assailants opened fire indiscriminately, forcing security personnel at the site to flee.
During the assault, a 150MVA 330/132/33kV power transformer, already positioned on its plinth, sustained severe damage, including a burst radiator. This setback threatens the timely completion of the Obajana Transmission Substation, which is expected to significantly improve power supply to Kogi State and its neighboring regions once operational.
In response to the attack, TCN is conducting an evaluation of the damage in collaboration with the project contractor. Mbah highlighted that this incident reflects a troubling trend of vandalism targeting transmission infrastructure across the country, further exacerbating challenges to the nation’s power supply.
Just days prior, TCN expressed concern over a rise in vandalism affecting transmission lines and towers, which undermines the stability and expansion of the national grid. This included recent damage to its 330kV Lokoja-Gwagwalada transmission line, where several towers were attacked.
“The growing trend of vandalism poses a serious challenge to our power infrastructure and hinders efforts to strengthen the national transmission system,” the statement noted. “Such acts of vandalism are a disservice to the nation and must be addressed urgently to safeguard our energy resources.”