TCN raises alarm over 276 Attacks on Transmission Towers across Nigeria

(TCN) has revealed a troubling trend of infrastructure vandalism, recording 276 cases of tower vandalism between 2022 and 2025. This disclosure was made during a public sensitization program held in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area, Ogun State, aimed at educating communities about the damaging effects of attacking power infrastructure.

Speaking at the event, Engr. Adeshina Adeonipekun, TCN’s General Manager for the Lagos region, noted that as of 2025, the company had documented no fewer than 276 vandalism incidents over the previous three years.

However, he expressed optimism that proactive measures are yielding results. Thanks to increased community cooperation and staff vigilance, TCN successfully reduced the number of incidents to about 40 this year.

Adeonipekun highlighted the company’s annual sensitization campaigns, which are rotated across different locations to foster collaboration with host communities. He noted that the Southwest region has recorded relatively minimal cases compared to other parts of the country, and he credited the National Security Adviser (NSA) and various security agencies for assisting in apprehending suspects involved in the crimes.

Further reinforcing TCN’s strategy, Engr. Kuye Emmanuel, Principal Manager of Lines, outlined practical on-ground measures. He explained that beyond awareness campaigns, TCN has hired private vigilantes who are paid monthly to patrol transmission lines across different community zones.

Additionally, the company provides incentives to local farmers as a gesture of goodwill and community support. This approach, he said, serves a dual purpose: giving back to the residents while encouraging them to remain alert and report any suspicious individuals loitering near power equipment.

The traditional ruler of Itori, HRM Abdul Fatai Akorede Akamo (Olu of Itori), praised TCN for its efforts but called for greater consistency. He pointed out that the last such awareness program in Itori was held four years ago, and he appealed to the company to make the sessions a yearly event, emphasizing that regular engagement is key to sustaining public cooperation and protecting national assets.