By Abiodun Folarin
WorldStage— The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Osogbo Region, in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has intensified enforcement against illegal encroachment and unauthorised activities along transmission line corridors in Osun State, arresting several violators during a joint operation.
The enforcement exercise, led by the Principal Manager, System Lines, Engr. Gbenga Akeju, alongside officers of the NSCDC’s Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Department, targeted individuals and business operators carrying out unlawful activities beneath high-voltage 330kV and 132kV transmission lines.
The operation focused on enforcing statutory safety clearances of 25 metres on both sides of 330kV transmission lines and 15 metres on both sides of 132kV lines, in line with national regulations guiding the protection of critical power infrastructure.
During the exercise, officials identified multiple cases of illegal occupation and encroachment along the Osogbo–Ikeja West and Osogbo–Ayede 330kV transmission corridors, as well as the Osogbo–Ede 132kV transmission line around the Oke-Onti and Hallelujah areas in Olurunda Local Government Area of Osun State.
Several violators were arrested and taken into custody for questioning, while affected occupants were directed to provide credible sureties and court-sworn undertakings to vacate the corridors within the stipulated timeframe.
Speaking during the operation, Engr. Akeju warned that illegal structures and commercial activities within transmission corridors pose serious risks to public safety, critical power infrastructure, and the stability of electricity supply nationwide.
He explained that TCN’s Right of Way corridors are designated to safeguard transmission facilities and protect nearby communities from hazards such as electrocution, vandalism, fire outbreaks, and power disruptions.
Akeju also commended the NSCDC for its continued collaboration in protecting critical national assets, noting that similar enforcement operations and public sensitisation campaigns would be sustained across the region to strengthen public safety and secure the nation’s transmission network.
