By Hillary Asemota
Following the unabated electricity blackout which has paralysed Northern Nigeria in the last few weeks, President Bola Tinubu on Monday expressed concern over the lingering blackout even as he expressed determination to end the disruption that has knocked down social and economic activities in the zones.
He has therefore summoned the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu following the incessant cloud of darkness over some parts of the country.
Consequently, he has directed the Minister of Power and relevant agencies to speed up the pace of work to restore electricity to all the affected states in the North.
Mr. Bayo Onanuga, SA to the President Tinubu on Media and Communications, said the President is saddened by the reports of vandalism and wilful destruction of power infrastructure and other public assets that caused the unfortunate blackout.
In a meeting with the Minister of Power, who briefed on efforts made by the Transmission Company of Nigeria to repair the damaged Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines, the President directed a long-term solution to the problem.
Tinubu, charged TCN engineers not to relent in bringing immediate relief to the people who need electricity to sustain their social and economic activities.
To ensure that restoration work continues unhindered, President Tinubu also directed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to work with the Army and Air Force to deploy adequate security personnel, including aerial cover, to protect the engineers who are fixing the damaged transmission line.
The President, implores traditional rulers, community leaders, and other leaders of thought to work with security agencies to protect public assets and infrastructure.
He said the government will no longer condone deliberate sabotage and destruction of public utilities.