Community efforts help cut vandalism cases — TCN

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) says it has recorded 40 cases of vandalism since the beginning of 2026, noting a decline compared to previous years.

The company attributed the reduction to sustained engagement with host communities and proactive measures by its staff.

TCN made the disclosure during a sensitisation programme organised by its Lagos Region in Itori, located in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State.

Speaking at the event, the General Manager (Transmission), Adeshina Adeonipekun, revealed that the company recorded no fewer than 276 cases of tower vandalism between 2022 and 2025.

“This year, with the support of communities and proactiveness of our staff, we have been able to minimise the issue of vandalism to about 40,” he said.

Adeonipekun explained that TCN conducts annual sensitisation campaigns across various locations to strengthen collaboration with host communities and reduce attacks on critical power infrastructure. He added that vandalism cases in the South-West are relatively lower compared to other regions.

Also speaking, TCN’s Principal Manager (Lines), Kuye Emmanuel, said the company has engaged local vigilantes to protect electricity transmission towers.

He noted that the community-based security approach involves hiring and paying vigilantes across zones to safeguard transmission lines and deter vandals.

In addition, Emmanuel said TCN provides incentives to farmers in host communities to encourage vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities around power installations.

The sensitisation programme highlighted the dangers of vandalising transmission infrastructure, erecting buildings along transmission line rights of way, and excavating near tower bases.

Adeonipekun further disclosed that the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies have supported efforts to apprehend suspected vandals.

In his remarks, the Olu of Itori land, Oba Akorede Akamo, called for the sensitisation campaign to be held annually, describing it as aligned with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

He added that traditional leaders across the 127 communities under his domain have played a role in ensuring residents do not tamper with transmission facilities.

The District Officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Itori, Mrs Olusola Balogun, warned residents against aiding vandalism, stressing that the offence carries legal consequences, including imprisonment.

She cautioned that attacks on electricity infrastructure could lead to power outages and pose risks to the economy and national security.

Similarly, the Divisional Police Officer of Itori Police Station, CSP Dapo Ojekunle, urged residents to report any suspicious activity, noting that community cooperation is essential in preventing vandalism.