Maiduguri thrown into darkness as Boko Haram vandalises transmission lines

The entire Maiduguri, Borno State capital, has been thrown into utter darkness, following vandalism of the transmission lines by Boko Haram insurgents, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) confirmed on Monday.

It said the insurgents had destroyed the 330KV transmission line between Maiduguri and Damaturu.

In a statement issued by its General Manager, Mrs Ndidi Mba, in Abuja on Monday, the commission disclosed that the state had also been completely cut-off from the national grid since January 17, 2020.

“The Transmission Company of Nigeria hereby informs the public that Maiduguri and its environs have been cut off from the national grid since January 17, 2020 due to damages to TCN’s equipment by insurgents.

“The incident affected the Also, the Damboa-Maiduguri 132KV transmission line has equally been disconnected from the grid for sometime for the same reason,” the statement reads in part.

ALSO READ: NASS to enact laws to aid development of grids

However, it said the fault on the Maiduguri-Damaturu line had been discovered, adding that arrangements were being made to repair the line.

“Bulk electricity would be restored to Maiduguri on or before January 20, 2020.

“TCN pledges to continue to work to ensure bulk electricity transmission and grid expansion nationwide.

“The company wishes to use this opportunity to commend the Nigeria Armed Forces for their continued support, especially in areas prone to insecurity.

“TCN regrets inconveniences caused by this problem to electricity consumers in the affected areas,” the statement added.