Blackout Hits Bayelsa As Vandals Damage 132kv Transmission Towers

Bayelsa State has been plunged into darkness following the sabotage of two key transmission towers, T98 and T99, in the Igbogene community of Yenagoa local government area of the State.

The damaged towers are crucial components of the power supply to Bayelsa, carrying 132kV lines from Owerri in Imo State through Ahoada in Rivers State.

The incident has severely disrupted the state’s electricity supply, prompting concerns from Governor Douye Diri. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, on Friday, the governor expressed deep concern over the frequent power outages affecting the state.

“Bayelsa has once again been thrown into darkness due to the collapse of the two 132kV lines,” Governor Diri lamented.

The state government is actively collaborating with the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to expedite the restoration of power.

Engr. Olice Kemenanabo, Managing Director of the Bayelsa State Electricity Company Limited, confirmed that TCN officials are currently addressing the issue. He urged residents to remain patient during this challenging period.

Kemenanabo called on the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities around the electricity infrastructure to security agencies. He warned vandals to desist from damaging the facilities, emphasizing the hardships these actions impose on electricity consumers.

“This latest incident underscores the urgent need for the TCN to establish a work centre in Bayelsa, a request we have been making since 2021,” Kemenanabo stated. “Such a facility would enable quicker intervention and response when incidents like this occur.”