Two Arrested Over Vandalism of Ebonyi Transmission Towers as TCN Raises Alarm on Power Infrastructure Sabotage
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
Two suspected vandals have been arrested over the destruction and theft of components from the Nkalagu–Abakaliki 132kV transmission line in Ebonyi State, in what the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) described as a major act of economic sabotage against the nation’s power infrastructure.
The suspects, identified as Obinna Nweke and Monday Ezike, were apprehended on May 9, 2026, following a coordinated effort by local youths and vigilante members in Ezza Umuhuali Community, Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The arrests were disclosed in a statement issued by the Transmission Company of Nigeria and signed by the General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah.
According to TCN, the suspects were linked to the vandalism of Towers T15, T16, and T17 along the Nkalagu–Abakaliki 132kV Single Circuit Transmission Line.
Preliminary investigations revealed that critical structural tower components valued at billions of naira were systematically removed from the affected towers and allegedly sold to illegal scrap metal dealers.
TCN stated that investigations further uncovered that the vandalism had reportedly been ongoing since January 2026 before the suspects were finally apprehended.
“The criminal activity had been ongoing from January 2026 until the suspects’ apprehension,” the statement noted.
The company disclosed that the suspects were immediately handed over to operatives of the Nigerian Police Force at Ishielu Police Station, Ntezi, and have since been arraigned before the Ebonyi State High Court.
While the two principal suspects are currently in custody, TCN said security agencies have intensified efforts to track down other accomplices still at large.
The transmission company strongly condemned the attack on the power infrastructure, warning that such acts threaten electricity stability in Ebonyi State and neighbouring communities.
“TCN strongly condemns this act of economic sabotage, which not only constitutes a grievous assault on national infrastructure but also undermines the stability of electricity supply to Ebonyi State and surrounding communities,” the statement added.
The company commended the vigilance and swift intervention of the Ezza Umuhuali youths and vigilante group for helping to bring the suspects to justice.
TCN also urged host communities nationwide to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities around transmission installations to security agencies or the nearest TCN office to protect critical national infrastructure.
