JALINGO, Nigeria (FN) — Authorities in Taraba State have launched an investigation into allegations that employees of the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) tampered with electrical transformers and stole power cables, causing widespread outages and raising concerns about internal sabotage.
Residents in several communities around Jalingo reported sudden blackouts and suspicious activity near substations. Witnesses claimed that individuals wearing NEPA uniforms were seen dismantling equipment and removing cables under the cover of darkness.
“I saw them around midnight pulling wires from the transformer,” said Musa Ibrahim, a resident of Mayo-Gwoi. “We assumed they were fixing something, but by morning, the entire neighborhood had no light.”
Local police confirmed that multiple reports had been filed and that several suspects were being questioned. A senior officer at the Taraba State Police Command said the investigation is ongoing and could lead to formal charges.
“We are working closely with the state’s energy regulators to determine the extent of the damage and identify those responsible,” the officer said.
The Taraba State Ministry of Power condemned the alleged actions and pledged swift accountability. “If these allegations are true, it represents a serious breach of public trust,” said a ministry spokesperson. “We will not tolerate criminal behavior within our energy institutions.”
Sources within NEPA, now succeeded by the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), said internal audits are underway to verify equipment losses and review access logs. Some of the accused individuals may be former staff or contractors operating without proper oversight.
The incidents have sparked outrage among residents, many of whom already face unreliable electricity supply. Community leaders are calling for tighter security around power infrastructure and greater transparency in maintenance operations.
“This is not just theft — it’s sabotage,” said Reverend Joseph Danladi, a local activist. “Our communities suffer when power is cut off, and it’s unacceptable that those entrusted with maintaining the system are the ones destroying it.”
The case echoes similar incidents in other parts of Nigeria, including recent arrests in Oyo State where former NEPA staff were caught stealing transformers and electrical components.
As investigations continue, officials are urging the public to report suspicious activity and avoid confronting suspected vandals directly. The state government has pledged to strengthen oversight and ensure justice is served.
