Residents and local leaders in Niger State are raising alarms over repeated attacks on the Shiroro-Kaduna 330kV power lines, which have resulted in widespread blackouts across Northern Nigeria. These vital lines, responsible for transmitting up to 600 megawatts of electricity, have become a target for bandits, leading to severe disruptions in power supply.
Local sources report that the lines run through several vulnerable communities, including Chiri, which have experienced numerous assaults by armed groups. A traditional ruler from the region highlighted the ongoing risk, stating that the lines are located on common bandit routes, complicating maintenance efforts by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).
Despite a decrease in violence in some areas, residents remain apprehensive about potential attacks. The TCN has faced significant challenges in restoring service due to security threats, with past maintenance efforts met with ambushes that resulted in casualties among security personnel.
Recent statements from TCN officials reveal that the company has undertaken upgrades to enhance power transmission but remains hampered by the threat of violence. In response, the Nigerian government has deployed military forces to protect the critical infrastructure.
With power restoration efforts underway, officials assure that electricity supply will resume within days, emphasizing the importance of securing these lines against further vandalism.
