TCN seeks support to tackle vandalism, illegal structures
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has called on stakeholders to work together to address the ongoing vandalism and illegal encroachments within the transmission ‘Right of Way’. Mr. Ganiyu Aliyu, the General Manager of TCN’s Kaduna Region, represented by Assistant General Manager of Technical Services, Mr. Abubakar Usman, made this appeal during a town hall meeting held in Jaji, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Aliyu emphasized the significant risks associated with building structures under high-tension power lines and lamented that vandalism has severely undermined the Federal Government’s goal of providing uninterrupted power supply. He noted that the company’s progress is frequently reversed by vandals, who set back their efforts.
Aliyu urged traditional leaders to protect these assets in their communities and educate their members about the dangers of encroachment and vandalism. He expressed concern over the frequent destruction of transmission towers, revealing that over 100 towers had been vandalized in 2024, affecting areas such as Rigachikun, Barakallahu, Kwarau, Birnin Yaro, Jaji, and Kwanan Dangora.
He also highlighted the health risks associated with building near high-tension lines, such as leukemia and stunted growth in children, and warned that power outages could cause dangerous sparks that might ignite nearby buildings. Aliyu recommended maintaining a safe distance of 50 meters for 330kV lines, 30 meters for 132kV lines, and 11 meters for 33kV lines.
The District Head of Jaji, Alhaji Adamu Saleh, praised TCN’s outreach and promised that traditional leaders would continue to educate their communities about the risks. He suggested that TCN collaborate with the State Urban Planning Agency (KASUPDA) to prevent construction under transmission towers before it progresses too far.
AVM Hassan Idris, Commandant of the Armed Forces and Staff College (AFSC) Jaji, represented by Commodore Dickson Chigbata, argued that such acts should be classified as theft and treated as serious criminal offenses. Idris pledged AFSC’s support in combating these issues.
ASP Kefas Liberty of the Jaji Police Command reported that, with help from the State Vigilance Service and community members, two suspects were arrested in June and are currently facing charges. He urged the community to remain vigilant and support security efforts.
