Gunmen invade Nigerian power substation, seize workers, declare force majeure

The security breach at the Offa 132kV Transmission Substation in Kwara State represents a grave threat to Nigeria's already fragile power infrastructure. The audacity of armed gunmen invading a critical national asset and holding personnel hostage at gunpoint is deeply concerning and highlights a disturbing trend of insecurity impacting essential services.

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The Transmission Company of Nigeria, Osogbo Region, has declared force majeure on its Offa 132 kV Transmission Substation following a robbery incident at the facility.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria's (TCN) declaration of force majeure on the substation underscores the severity of the situation. The attackers' actions, including forcing the shutdown of key electricity feeders and tampering with control systems, demonstrate a deliberate attempt to disrupt power supply. This not only causes immediate inconvenience to citizens but also poses significant risks to the stability of the national grid.

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The substation was invaded by heavily armed men who forcefully gained access to the control room and held all personnel on duty hostage at gunpoint.

While the TCN has reported that supply was gradually restored, the incident raises critical questions about the security protocols at such vital facilities. The motive behind the gunmen's actions remains unclear, adding a layer of unease. It is imperative that a thorough investigation is conducted to identify the perpetrators and their objectives, and that robust security measures are implemented to prevent future occurrences.

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The attackers ordered the operator on duty to open both the Offa and Ojoku 33kV feeders at exactly 12:45 am on Thursday, 7th May 2026. They further demanded a total shutdown of the substation.

This event, unfortunately, is not an isolated incident in a country grappling with widespread security challenges. However, the targeting of power infrastructure demands a heightened response from security agencies. The Nigerian public, already enduring erratic power supply, deserves assurance that their essential services are protected from such criminal acts. The government must prioritize the security of its energy infrastructure to ensure economic stability and the well-being of its citizens.

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During the incident, control switches and relay buttons were tampered with, and the 40MVA transformer was opened at approximately 1:07 am.