TCN sensitizes Ebonyi host communities on power installations protection

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Enugu Region, has launched a community awareness campaign in Umuhuali, Ezillo and Nkalagu communities of Ebonyi State as part of efforts to tackle the growing cases of vandalism, illegal development on its Right of Way (RoW), and excavation around transmission tower foundations.

During the sensitization exercise, the General Manager, Transmission, Enugu Region, Dr. Thomas Inugonum, said the initiative was designed to strengthen cooperation between TCN and host communities where critical power infrastructure is located.

In a statement issued on Saturday by TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, Dr. Inugonum highlighted five major concerns that require urgent attention from residents. These include vandalism of 330kV and 132kV transmission lines, construction of buildings within TCN’s RoW, digging of soil around tower bases, engaging in farming, trading or living directly under high-voltage towers, as well as burning refuse beneath transmission lines.

He explained that similar sensitization programmes previously held in Makurdi, Benue State, and in Agbogugu and Ihe communities in Enugu State had produced encouraging results, adding that TCN expects the same level of success in Ebonyi communities.

Dr. Inugonum also recalled a fatal incident in Ezillo where a suspected vandal lost his life after being electrocuted while trying to tamper with Tower 34 on the Nkalagu-Abakaliki 132kV transmission line. He further revealed that on May 9, 2026, two suspected vandals were apprehended in Ezza Umuhuali after local youths and security personnel intercepted them for allegedly removing critical parts from Towers T15, T16 and T17 on the Nkalagu-Abakaliki 132kV single-circuit line.

He decried the increasing theft of transmission tower materials, noting that components worth millions of naira are often stolen and sold cheaply to scrap dealers.

The regional transmission boss called for stronger community involvement, constant local surveillance and closer collaboration with security agencies to check the activities of vandals and those trading in stolen power equipment. He also encouraged residents to promptly report any suspicious movement around TCN facilities through security agencies or the company’s designated hotlines.

The exercise began with a courtesy visit by Dr. Inugonum and members of his management team to the traditional ruler of Umuhuali Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Patrick Nwafor Udoku. The monarch, who received the delegation alongside members of his cabinet, assured TCN of the community’s commitment to protecting electricity infrastructure and preventing encroachment on the company’s Right of Way.

Speaking on behalf of the affected communities, the President General of Ezza Umuhuali Town Union, Hon. Solomon Nweke, said the recent arrest of the suspects was made possible through the vigilance of local security groups and community leaders. He described attacks on electricity infrastructure as a threat to the national economy and a danger to lives and property.

Nweke urged TCN to sustain regular engagement with host communities while also supporting local surveillance efforts to improve the protection of transmission assets.

At the end of the programme, representatives of the various communities pledged to work closely with TCN and security agencies to safeguard power installations serving their areas and the countryis at large.