Parts of Lagos State have been thrown into darkness after severe flooding caused by continuous rainfall disrupted operations at major electricity transmission facilities across the state.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) announced on Wednesday that it has declared force majeure on the Oworoshoki 33KV and Lekki 330/132KV Transmission Substations following widespread flooding triggered by persistent rainfall.
In a statement issued by the company’s General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, TCN disclosed that while the Lekki 330/132KV Transmission Substation remains operational, the Oworoshoki 133/33KV Transmission Substation has been completely shut down after floodwaters submerged critical equipment.
According to the company, two power transformers at the Oworoshoki substation were affected after restoration efforts failed.
“Although Lekki 330/132KV Transmission Substation is in service as water is continuously being pumped out of the station, Oworoshoki 133/33KV Transmission Substation, on the other hand, is currently not in service as the level of water has affected two power transformers, TR1 (60 MVA) and TR3 (30 MVA), that tripped on no load even after attempted restoration.
“Presently, all power protection and control cables of the two power transformers are submerged in water, and efforts to evacuate the water have proved ineffective as the rain continues to fall,” the statement said.
TCN said engineers are working around the clock to drain the flooded facility and assess the affected transformers before electricity supply can be restored.
“Our engineers are working, doing everything possible to evacuate the flood to enable them to test the transformers for restoration.
“TCN regrets every inconvenience this might cause Eko Electricity Distribution Company customers taking supply from the substations,” the company added.
The development has left several communities served by the affected transmission facilities without electricity as heavy rainfall continues across parts of Lagos State.
