Taraba State Government has decried the lingering blackout that have enveloped the Nigerian Northeastern region of the country.
The State Government stated that the situation has worsened security and economic challenges in the region.
Recall that for over two weeks, some States in the region, including Taraba, have been experiencing power outage. According to reports, the situation is caused by the vandalization of four transmission line towers along the Jos-Gombe 330kv line.
Addressing journalists on the development on Thursday, the State Commissioner of Energy and Economic Development, Naomi Agbu, described the situation as disturbing. She said criminal activities have increased in the region since the electricity challenges began.
“These senseless acts of sabotage have not only jeopardized the reliability of electrical infrastructure in the North-east region but have also resulted in widespread inconvenience and hardship for our communities, plunging millions into blackout.
“Recent reports received have shown spikes in crimes and insecurity issues for a region like the North that is already endangered. The cascading effects to our regional economy, especially in terms of food production, cannot be exaggerated,” she noted.
Agbu, however, condemned the vandalization of the transmission line towers by criminals in the area.
The Commissioner said despite the fact that it is a Federal Government issue, the State Government was making efforts to rectify the problem. She pointed that the State is collaborating with the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, and Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) to address the situation.
“We have also contacted the Minister of Power but we are yet to get a positive feedback.
“In addition to our immediate efforts of monitoring the restoration of electricity supply, YEDC has informed us on the measures that they are implementing to enhance the security and resilience of electrical infrastructure
“This includes increasing surveillance and patrols of transmission line corridors. Implementing stricter access controls to critical infrastructure sites. And enhancing community engagement to raise awareness about the importance of protecting these electrical assets,” Agbu said.
The Commissioner, therefore, urged members of the public to remain vigilant. She tasked them to report any suspicious activities or individuals near transmission line towers or electrical facilities in the State.
source: Premium Times
