Taraba Governor Kefas Expresses Frustration Over Prolonged Blackout, Slams Delay in Power Restoration

Agbu Kefas, the Governor of Taraba State, has expressed his concern regarding the disruption in electricity supply caused by the alleged vandalization of four transmission line towers along the Jos-Gombe 330kV line.

This incident, which occurred on April 22, 2024, has resulted in a complete blackout for the state for nearly three weeks.

During a press briefing held in Jalingo, the governor, through his Commissioner of Energy and Economic Development, Naomi Tanko Agbu, described the act as senseless and emphasized that it has not only compromised the reliability of electrical infrastructure in the North-East region but has also caused widespread inconvenience and hardship for the community, leaving millions without electricity.

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The governor criticized the federal government for the prolonged time it is taking to resolve the issue, stating that it reflects a complete neglect of Taraba State and the region.

He called for the immediate implementation of a robust plan, such as the North-East ring circuit proposed in the TCN expansion plan, to connect the North-East to the South of Nigeria.

The governor urged the people of the state to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals observed near transmission line towers or electrical facilities attempting to vandalize the infrastructure.

He provided phone numbers and contact information for whistleblowers to use in reporting such incidents.

Additionally, the Ministry of Energy and Economic Development can also be contacted with information on vandalism and unsanctioned activities that sabotage the network.

The governor called on federal representatives from the state and the northeast region to be proactive in investigating the prolonged disregard for power restoration in the region.