The Borno State Government has confirmed the arrest of 13 suspects allegedly involved in the vandalisation of the Maiduguri–Damaturu 33kV transmission line.
The state Commissioner for Transport and Energy, Hon. Aliyu Mohammed Lawan Buba, popularly known as Bamanga, disclosed this while calling on residents, particularly communities located along government infrastructure corridors, to remain vigilant and help protect public assets.
The vandalised transmission line had reportedly been fully completed and was awaiting commissioning when the incident occurred.
The Commissioner expressed concern over the timing of the vandalism, stressing that the destruction of government infrastructure could undermine projects designed to improve the lives and wellbeing of residents.
Representatives of the Commissioner at the press briefing included the General Manager of the Rural Electrification Board (REB), the Acting Director of Energy, the Deputy Director of Maintenance, REB, and the Commissioner’s Personal Assistant.
They reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to collaborating with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to safeguard critical infrastructure across the state.
The Commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), who also spoke at the briefing, assured residents that the Corps would continue to intensify efforts to protect government property and critical infrastructure.
READ ALSO: APC Presidential Campaign Council Vows Aggressive Mobilization of South-East Women Ahead of 2027
He said the NSCDC would not relent in preventing vandalism and other activities capable of undermining government projects, adding that its personnel were prepared to respond to threats against public infrastructure.
The Ministry urged residents to remain alert and promptly report suspicious movements or activities around government facilities to the appropriate security agencies.
Bamanga emphasised that government projects are public investments and should be protected by all stakeholders to ensure that communities receive the intended benefits.
The Ministry also commended the security agencies and members of the public whose vigilance contributed to the arrest of the 13 suspects, while reiterating its determination to protect critical transport and energy infrastructure throughout Borno State.
