Abakaliki, Nigeria — Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the vandalism of critical power infrastructure along the Nkalagu–Abakaliki 132kV transmission line in Ebonyi State, in an incident described as economic sabotage by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).
The suspects, identified as Obinna Nweke and Monday Ezike, were apprehended on May 9, 2026, following a tip-off that led local youths and a vigilante group in Ezza Umuhuali Community, Ishielu Local Government Area, to their arrest.
According to TCN, the suspects were linked to the destruction of transmission towers T15, T16 and T17, where structural components were allegedly removed and sold to illegal scrap metal dealers.
Preliminary findings indicate that the vandalism had been ongoing since January 2026, raising concerns over the security of power infrastructure in the region.
In a statement issued by Ndidi Mbah, General Manager, Public Affairs, Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the agency strongly condemned the act, describing it as economic sabotage capable of undermining electricity supply to Ebonyi State and neighbouring communities.
“This act of vandalism is a form of economic sabotage that undermines the stability of electricity supply,” the company stated, while commending the swift response of local youths and vigilante operatives.
The agency also urged communities nationwide to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around power installations to security agencies and relevant authorities.
Energy sector stakeholders say repeated attacks on transmission infrastructure pose a significant challenge to Nigeria’s power supply reliability and economic growth.
Authorities are expected to continue investigations while efforts intensify to curb vandalism targeting critical national assets.
