In a strongly worded statement, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a stern warning to the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), demanding that the company provide adequate and consistent power supply to the South-East region or face the consequence of being forced to leave the area for more reliable companies to take over.
The statement, released by IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, accused EEDC of failing to provide satisfactory electricity supply to the region, despite consumers paying for services they are not receiving. The group expressed frustration over the abysmal power situation, which they believe is hampering economic activities and industrialization in the region.
IPOB specifically criticized the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EEDC in March 2023, promising 24-hour electricity supply in the state. However, according to IPOB, Anambra State has remained in darkness, with EEDC failing to provide even six hours of steady power supply per day, let alone the promised 24-hour supply.
The group’s statement emphasized that the power sector in Nigeria has been decentralized and liberalized, allowing states, local governments, and private companies to generate and distribute their own electricity. In light of this, IPOB believes that it has become imperative for EEDC to be shown the exit door if they cannot meet the region’s power needs.
IPOB warned that if EEDC continues with its abysmal power supply in the South-East, the group will have no option but to shut down EEDC offices in the region in the shortest possible time. The group’s stance highlights the growing frustration over the persistent power challenges faced by residents and businesses in the South-East region.
The call for improved power supply or the exit of EEDC from the region underscores the importance of reliable and consistent electricity for economic growth and development. Businesses and industries require a stable power supply to operate efficiently, and the lack of it can severely hamper their operations and profitability.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how EEDC and the relevant authorities will respond to IPOB’s demands. The power sector in Nigeria has long been plagued by numerous challenges, and resolving the issue of inadequate supply in the South-East region will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders involved.
Reference
Provide adequate electricity or leave South-east, IPOB warns EEDC published in Vanguard.