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The Forum of Delta State NGOs has called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to come to the rescue of the citizens who are suffering from the bondage of epileptic electricity supply to the State.

The Forum made the call in a press release signed by it’s co-ordinator, Deacon Okezi Odugala, which  declared the operations of BEDC in the State as exploitative and a complete failure.

The statement entitled “FORUM OF DELTA STATE NGOs DECRY EPILEPTIC POWER SUPPLY, CALL FOR EMERGENCY DECLARATION AND REFORMS”, reads:

“We, the Forum of Delta State NGOs, has thought it crucial to address a critical issue affecting the socio-economic and environmental livelihood of our dear state. It is that the epileptic power supply across Delta State has reached a crisis point, and we think like all other Deltans believe that this is unacceptable.
Accordingly, we urge the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to declare an emergency on the power sector and take proactive measures to address this anomaly which has started to destroy the socio-economic and environmental livelihood of the state.

“As the highest oil and gas producer in the country and host to one of the largest power generation stations in Ughelli, it is unacceptable that our communities cannot boast of constant four hours of electricity supply. This situation is further exacerbated by the heat wave from climate change, making living conditions unbearable for citizens.

“On behalf of the Forum of Delta State NGOs, I the Co-ordinator of the Forum, Deacon Okezi Odugala state that we believe that constant electricity supply is crucial for the full realization of the MORE agenda, which represents:

M – Meaningful development,

O – Opportunities for all,
R- realistic reforms, and
E – enhanced peace and security,
as it will help to create employment opportunities, reduce crime, and make living conditions enjoyable.

“We concur that the recent Federal Government reforms enabling states and local governments to generate and transmit electricity provide a window for the state to engage in public-private partnerships to develop the power sector.

“Unfortunately, the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) has failed woefully in providing adequate power supply to our communities. Hence, We pass a vote of no confidence on BEDC, and their monopoly on the power sector must be dismantled urgently. They have exploited Deltans and frustrated small and large-scale business development in the state.
“We declare them an enemy of citizens and our sustainable development.

“Therefore, we call on the Governor to:
1. Declare an emergency on the power sector and make it a foremost priority.
2. Cause a review and reform of the energy sector to ensure constant electricity supply.
3. Engage in public-private partnerships to develop the power sector.
4. Dismantle the monopoly of BEDC and open up the power sector to more efficient and effective operators.

“We urge the Governor to take these steps to leave an indelible mark on the state. By prioritizing electricity, he will attract investors, create employment opportunities, and improve the living conditions of citizens.”