Power Sector Saboteurs and Vandals won’t go unpunished – Adelabu

Federal Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu has made a strong commitment to hold saboteurs in the power sector accountable, especially those involved in vandalizing power infrastructure.

The Minister spoke at the weekend during an inspection tour of facilities at the National Control Centre in Osogbo and the Osogbo sub-regional office of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). He also expressed his determination to upgrade the facilities with modern technologies to enhance power transmission reliability.

He emphasized the need to expand electricity transmission capacity and establish the true capacity of the national grid through simulation exercises. Adelabu also disclosed that an investigation has commenced regarding the recent fire outbreak at a TCN substation facility in Kebbi State, which caused a nationwide blackout. He suggested that the incident appeared to be an act of sabotage and assured that those responsible would face legal consequences.

Adelabu outlined his approach of rewarding high performance while also punishing acts of sabotage within the power sector. He stressed the importance of protecting the national grid through collaboration with the National Security Adviser’s office to enhance security around power installations nationwide.

Furthermore, he condemned unauthorized shutdowns of the national grid during electricity workers’ industrial actions, considering them economic sabotage and a threat to national security. Adelabu called for collective responsibility in safeguarding the national grid and urged stakeholders in the power sector to work diligently to improve the efficiency of electricity delivery to Nigerians.

The Minister recognized the dedication of the National Control Center staff in restoring power during disruptions despite aging equipment. He also commended all stakeholders for their contributions to stabilizing electricity generation, transmission, and distribution.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of TCN pledged to collaborate with the Minister to resolve challenges hindering progress in the power sector, while officials from the National Control Centre highlighted their proactive approach in detecting technical faults and maintaining transmission equipment for efficient service delivery to Nigerians.