YOREC warns against electricity infrastructure vandalism in Yobe

The Yobe State Rural Electrification Commission (YOREC) has issued a warning against the destruction of electricity infrastructure following the arrest of a suspect linked to a blackout affecting four local government areas. The blackout, which occurred on Friday evening along the Damaturu–Babbangida 33KV line, left Tarmuwa, Bursari, Yunusari, and Geidam LGAs without power, disrupting daily life and business operations.

The arrested suspect claimed that their group, led by an individual in Damaturu, had been committing these acts for a considerable time, with the leader providing instructions to the members as they conducted their illicit activities from their business in the state capital.

Engr. Umara Mustapha Goniri, YOREC's Executive Chairman, condemned the vandalism as a significant threat to the state's development and residents' well-being. He urged those involved to cease their destructive behavior and emphasized that anyone willing to change would receive guidance from God in the right direction. Goniri also called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals near electricity installations to the relevant security agencies.

He stressed that protecting these vital infrastructures is a shared responsibility, as vandalism not only leaves entire communities without electricity but also hampers businesses, livelihoods, and overall socio-economic progress. YOREC emphasized the importance of heightened community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to safeguard electricity infrastructure and prevent further acts of vandalism across the state.