Daniel Adaji
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) on Wednesday, witnessed the demolition of illegal structures erected under its high-tension transmission lines along the Zango and Yelwa communities in Bauchi State.
The demolition exercise, carried out by the Bauchi State Infrastructure Development and Maintenance Agency (BASIDMA), targeted residential and commercial buildings constructed within the statutory Right of Way (RoW) of TCN transmission lines.
In a statement signed by its General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, TCN said the enforcement action followed months of engagement and public sensitisation on the dangers posed by encroachments on transmission corridors.
According to the company, “The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) observed a demolition exercise conducted by the Bauchi State Infrastructure Development and Maintenance Agency (BASIDMA) on February 11, 2026, at the high-tension corridor along Zango and Yelwa Community in Bauchi.”
TCN explained that the operation specifically “targeted residential and commercial structures erected within the statutory Right of Way (RoW) of TCN transmission lines.”
The company noted that the demolition marked the culmination of sustained stakeholder engagements initiated in 2025 to address safety and grid stability concerns.
It stated that “This enforcement action was the culmination of sustained stakeholder engagements and sensitization programs initiated by TCN in 2025, aimed at addressing the risks associated with structures built within the transmission line corridor.”
TCN disclosed that it had convened meetings in 2025 with BASIDMA, community leaders, the Bauchi Urban Planning Authority, and youth representatives, where it highlighted the dangers of building within transmission corridors.
The statement added that BASIDMA, as the agency responsible for regulating land use and controlling development in Bauchi State, acted after the engagements.
“BASIDMA, responsible for regulating land use, controlling development, and managing infrastructure in Bauchi State, took the decision to demolish the structures following these engagements,” the statement said.
TCN described the move as a demonstration of the agency’s resolve to enforce regulations and safeguard residents.
The company further stressed that “The demolition exercise marks a significant step in ensuring the integrity of Nigeria’s transmission infrastructure and protecting the public from potential hazards associated with structures built under high-tension transmission lines.”
The company reiterated its commitment to working with relevant authorities and host communities nationwide to protect transmission infrastructure and ensure public safety.
