By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Residents of Dutse Uku in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State have been thrown into darkness after suspected hoodlums vandalized a transformer and carted away cables during a late-night downpour.
The incident occurred on Monday night while a heavy rainstorm swept through Jos and its surrounding areas, toppling trees and damaging homes and businesses. Locals say the criminals took advantage of the stormy weather to carry out their act unnoticed.
“This is heartbreaking. I woke up to the news that our transformer had been vandalized. It’s a big blow to us, especially to those of us who rely on electricity for our daily income,” said Ibrahim Isa, a resident of the area. “Welders, tailors, and shop owners will suffer the most. We are calling on the community to be vigilant and for the authorities to step in urgently.”
The blackout has disrupted both household and business activities, forcing many to halt their operations. Residents are now urging security agencies and electricity officials to investigate and restore power supply.
The storm also left a trail of destruction in the area. Yusuf Suleiman, whose house was affected, said, “The wind ripped off my roof and destroyed several zinc sheets. Replacing them will be costly. Many others in the neighborhood are also counting their losses.”
Incidents of transformer vandalism have become a recurring challenge in Plateau communities, often compounding the struggles of residents already dealing with economic hardship and poor infrastructure. Locals are now appealing for stronger community policing and quick intervention by the state government.