The Delta State Government has assured residents of Isoko Nation that significant improvements in electricity supply are on the way following fresh interventions aimed at rehabilitating critical power infrastructure across the area.
The assurance was given by the Delta State Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Michael Anoka, on Thursday during a meeting with members of Isoko People’s Measures, who visited Government House, Asaba, to stage a peaceful protest over the prolonged electricity challenges affecting communities within the Isoko Nation.
Addressing the protesters, Engr. Anoka said Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is fully aware of the hardship residents have endured due to inadequate electricity supply and has already directed immediate measures to restore stable power to the affected communities.
He explained that the governor had taken proactive steps even before the protest, demonstrating his commitment to finding lasting solutions to the electricity crisis.
“I want to assure you that even before this meeting, the governor had listened to your concerns. He understands the importance of electricity to the people and is committed to finding lasting solutions,” the commissioner said.
As part of the intervention, Anoka disclosed that rehabilitation works had already commenced on the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) power line serving the area.
He further announced that contractors would begin rehabilitation of the critical transmission line between Emevor and Ozoro next week, a project expected to significantly improve electricity distribution across the Isoko Nation.
According to him, the intervention is designed to ensure residents receive at least eight hours of electricity supply daily once the rehabilitation works are completed.
“Before next week, efforts will be made to rehabilitate the line between Emevor and Ozoro to ensure that Isoko Nation enjoys at least eight hours of electricity supply daily,” he stated.
The commissioner also addressed concerns surrounding the long-abandoned Ozoro 132KV transmission substation project, describing it as one of the most important infrastructure projects capable of providing a permanent solution to electricity challenges in the area.
He revealed that the project, abandoned since around 2011, predates the current administration but has now received renewed attention from Governor Oborevwori.
According to Anoka, he recently submitted a comprehensive report on the abandoned substation project to the governor, who is currently reviewing plans for its completion.
Although the project will require substantial financial resources and may take more than a year to complete, he expressed confidence that the governor possesses the political will to ensure its successful execution.
The commissioner disclosed that Governor Oborevwori has already approved the intervention project, adding that only administrative procedures remain before full implementation begins.
He appealed to residents to remain patient and continue supporting the government, assuring them that noticeable improvements in electricity supply would soon become evident.
Earlier, Chief Jerry Othuke, who spoke on behalf of Isoko People’s Measures, appealed to the Delta State Government to prioritise the completion of the Ozoro 132/33KV transmission line and substation.
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According to him, once completed, the facility has the capacity to provide stable electricity to the entire Isoko Nation, ending years of unreliable power supply that have affected businesses, households and economic activities.
Chief Othuke commended Governor Oborevwori for the developmental projects already being executed across Delta State under the M.O.R.E Agenda and expressed confidence that the administration would also deliver the long-awaited electricity infrastructure for Isoko communities.
Residents and stakeholders believe the intervention will not only improve electricity supply but also stimulate business growth, attract investment, support local industries and improve the overall quality of life across Isoko Nation.
The latest intervention forms part of the Delta State Government’s broader commitment to strengthening critical infrastructure and delivering sustainable development that benefits communities across the state.