The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Lagos Region, has intensified efforts to curb vandalism of power infrastructure through a sensitization programme held today, 14th May 2026, in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State.
The programme brought together traditional rulers, security agencies, community leaders and residents to educate members of the public on the dangers of vandalising transmission towers, building under transmission line Right of Way (RoW), and excavating around TCN towers.
Speaking during the programme, the General Manager (Transmission), Lagos Region, Engr. Adeshina Adeonipekun, disclosed that TCN recorded no fewer than 276 cases of tower vandalism between 2022 and 2025.
According to him, the figure has reduced significantly this year due to improved collaboration with host communities and the proactive efforts of TCN staff.
“This year, with the support of communities and the proactiveness of our staff, we have been able to reduce vandalism cases to about 40,” he said.
Adeonipekun stated that TCN has continued to strengthen measures aimed at tackling vandalism, noting that the sensitization programme remains one of TCN’s key strategies for engaging host communities and safeguarding critical national infrastructure.
He added that cases of vandalism within the South-West region have remained relatively minimal, while commending the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and security agencies for their support in apprehending culprits involved in vandalism.
Also speaking, Principal Manager (Lines), Engr. Kuye Emmanuel, said that the company has reinforced surveillance around transmission lines through community-based security arrangements.
“Apart from this awareness programme, we engage private vigilantes across communities and zones, who are paid monthly to help safeguard our transmission lines,” he stated.
He further explained that TCN also provides incentives to farmers and residents within host communities as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation and encourage prompt reporting of suspicious activities around transmission facilities.
In his remarks, the Olu of Itori Land, His Royal Highness, Oba Abdulfatai Akorede Akamo, commended TCN for sustaining the sensitization campaign and appealed for the programme to be held regularly.
“This awareness programme is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The last edition was held here in Itori about four years ago, and we appreciate TCN for returning to engage our people again. We appeal that it should be organised at least once every year,” the monarch said.
Oba Akamo also disclosed that Baales across the 127 communities under his kingdom have continued to ensure that no individual tampers with transmission infrastructure within their domains.
The District Officer, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Itori Command, Mrs. Olusola Balogun, warned residents against engaging in or supporting acts of vandalism, stressing that the offence attracts imprisonment upon conviction.
“Vandalism is a criminal offence which can lead to imprisonment if offenders are found guilty by a court of law. Some people aid and contribute to vandalism knowingly or unknowingly, and this must stop,” she warned.
Balogun noted that vandalism of power infrastructure could lead to power outages, negatively affect the economy and pose serious security challenges to the country.
She urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
Similarly, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Itori Police Station, CSP Dapo Ojekunle, called on residents to support security agencies by reporting cases of vandalism within their communities.
According to him, the Police cannot be everywhere at all times, hence the need for active community participation in crime prevention.
“Most of these vandals are very clever. If we see anyone vandalising the infrastructure, residents should report them immediately,” he said.
The DPO also advised residents not to harbour vandals or assist in keeping stolen materials, while encouraging complainants and witnesses to follow reported cases through the legal process to ensure successful prosecution of offenders.
