The Federal Capital Territory, FCT, is grappling with an aggravated shortage of electricity following the destruction of Tower 70 along the 330kV Gwagwalada-Katampe transmission line, marking an escalation in power challenges for Abuja.
Frequent power cuts have plagued Nigeria’s capital, attributed to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) receiving low supply. The root cause is linked to diminished electricity generation by power generation companies, citing the inability to procure gas due to significant debts owed by distribution companies.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) reported the recent act of vandalism, noting that Tower 70 is now precariously grounded. In a statement by TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, the incident occurred on February 26, around 11:32 pm.
“At the said time, the Gwagwalada – Katampe Transmission line tripped at Gwagwalada Transmission Substation, and trial reclosure by TCN operators failed, necessitating a physical patrol of the line. The TCN lines and patrol team discovered that the four (4) tower footings of Tower 70 were vandalised, destroying the tower legs and causing the tower to stand on the ground, supported by conductors,” Mbah explained.
The vandalism resulted in a 250MW reduction in bulk power supply flexibility and the volume of power supplied to Abuja. The TCN has mobilized to the site and initiated an emergency repair of the damaged tower and associated equipment.
Mbah reiterated the call for vigilance in combating vandalism of power equipment, urging the public to report any suspicious activities around power facilities to security operatives or the nearest TCN offices nationwide.
Faruk Shuaibu; From the News Source: DailyTrust
