Bayelsa State has been plunged into a prolonged power crisis following the vandalism of over 253 electricity transformers in communities around Yenagoa, the state capital.
This crisis emerged alongside the destruction of a 132kV double-circuit transmission line in Ahoada, Rivers State, which affected 19 electricity towers supplying power to Bayelsa from the national grid. As a result, the state has endured a total blackout since July 2024.
At a press briefing held on Monday, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, expressed grave concerns over the extensive vandalism and announced measures to combat the issue. She disclosed that, despite the affected power infrastructure being under the purview of the federal government, the state government had committed substantial resources to repair the damaged towers to alleviate the hardship experienced by residents.
“We are here again to update you on the power situation. About four months ago, vandals destroyed three power towers in Bayelsa State and an additional 13 towers between Ahoada and Mbiama, resulting in 16 towers being rendered non-functional. Three more towers were later damaged on Bayelsa’s side. These towers are federal government property, and their maintenance falls under federal jurisdiction. However, given the dire circumstances, the Bayelsa State government has spent significant funds to repair them,” Koku-Obiyai explained.
“More than 500 transformers are in use across the state, but sadly, 253 have been vandalized. Armoured cables have also been stolen in several locations. We must collectively protect government-owned infrastructure that benefits us all. Power supply will begin in some areas this week, but not every part of the state will have light immediately. The state government is committed to ensuring these assets are safeguarded,” she added.
In response to the vandalism, the state government is set to inaugurate a task force to identify and prosecute those involved in the illegal sale of second-hand armoured cables. “Anyone selling these cables must be able to account for their source,” Koku-Obiyai warned.
Adding to the discussion, the Managing Director and CEO of Bayelsa State Electricity Company Limited, Engineer Olice Kemenanabo, revealed that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) had successfully restored power to Ahoada and was actively working on reconnecting the Mbiama link to Bayelsa.
Similarly, the Regional Manager of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) in Bayelsa, Engineer Lawrence Emeyi, commended the state government for its proactive efforts in repairing the vandalized infrastructure. He assured residents that the electricity distribution company was prepared to resume operations as soon as power was fully restored.
