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TCN blames rising vandalism and illegal buildings for frequent national grid failures.
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Transmission towers and lines vandalised over 30% more in five years.
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Residents urged to safeguard power facilities and avoid high-tension line encroachment.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria has attributed incessant national grid collapses to increasing vandalism and illegal structures built under power lines.
General Manager of TCN, Benin Region, Charles Iwuamadi, raised the concern during a sensitisation programme at Umelu community in Edo State.
He said vandalism of transmission towers and lines has risen by more than 30 percent in the last five years, describing it as the major cause of grid failures.
Iwuamadi warned that vandalism of a single line destabilises the interconnected system and results in nationwide blackouts. He also cautioned residents against erecting buildings under high-tension lines, stressing that such actions expose lives to radiation, health hazards, and instant death risks in case of line collapse.
He noted that demolition of illegal structures remains a last resort, adding that enlightenment would continue to be prioritised over enforcement. The TCN chief commended Umelu residents for their cooperation as a peaceful host community along the 131km Benin–Onitsha line.
Deputy Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Edo Command, Suleiman Mohammed, urged communities to protect government facilities.
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He said funds meant for development are often diverted to repairs due to vandalism.
Residents appealed for facility upgrades, regular clearing of transmission corridors, and improved surveillance of infrastructure. The sensitisation campaign forms part of TCN’s nationwide efforts to curb vandalism, safeguard the national grid, and boost electricity supply.
