by Akan Ido

The Transmission Company of Nigeria has announced an imminent power blackout in six states of the federation on Saturday and Sunday.

According to a statement released by the TCN in Abuja yesterday, the affected states are Abia, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo and parts of Benue.

The Assistant General Manager, Public Affairs of the TCN, Dave Fabiyi explained that the blackout is to enable the company’s contractors enhance the capacity of the transmission system that serves the affected areas.

Fabiyi reportedly said, “In the bid to complete the final connection works on the new double circuit 330kV transmission line from Benin, in Edo State, to Onitsha, in Anambra State, and the associated substation at Onitsha, there will be power interruption to Abia, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi and Imo states in the eastern part of the federation, as well as parts of Benue State on Saturday, January 26 and Sunday, January 27, 2013.

“The crucial final connection works to be carried out by our contractors, having completed the stringing of 330kV double circuit transmission line across River Niger, aim at enhancing the transmission capacity in the area and improving grid power delivery and reliability nationwide.”

Ifabiyi apologised in advance for any inconveniences the two-day power interruption would cause the governments and people of the affected states.