The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Interior, to provide robust security for transmission towers nationwide to prevent vandalism and safeguard critical infrastructure.
This resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance raised by Hon. Oboku Oforji during plenary on Tuesday. Oforji highlighted the urgent need for action, citing incidents of vandalism that have disrupted power supply and economic activities in Rivers and Bayelsa states.
According to Oforji, residents of Yenagoa and Bayelsa State were plunged into a blackout on July 29, 2024, due to the collapse of a transmission station between Emezhi and Mbaima in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State, as well as three others between Igbogene and Nedugo Agbia in Yenagoa LGA.
In response, the Bayelsa State Government collaborated with the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to address the crisis. However, on November 19, 2024, just as repair works neared completion, vandals struck again, targeting a section of transmission lines at Ula-Akpata in Ahoada East LGA of Rivers State.
Oforji commended the Bayelsa State Government’s efforts in mobilizing resources to support the TCN but stressed the need for proactive measures to prevent further sabotage.
He emphasized the relevance of Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended), which outlines the economic and social rights of citizens, urging the government to take these responsibilities seriously.
The House resolved to:
1. Urge the Federal Government to direct the Ministry of Interior to provide adequate security for transmission towers across the country.
2. Mandate the Committees on Interior and Power to monitor and ensure compliance with this directive.
The call aims to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s power infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply to communities, bolstering socio-economic stability in affected areas.
