By Moses Nwite, Abakaliki
The Governor of Ebonyi State in Southeast Nigeria, Francis Nwifuru, has strongly condemned the recurring exploitation of customers by the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) in the state.
Governor Nwifuru expressed his dismay at the company’s practices, whereby residents of the state purchase and install electricity materials only for the company to overcharge them or even intentionally damage the materials.
He made these remarks during a courtesy visit by the top management of EEDC, led by Praveen Chorghede, in the state capital of Abakaliki.
The Governor stated, “I appreciate the proposal you have presented, but it is disheartening to see my people being taken advantage of. I am not pleased with this situation.”
“Now, it is imperative that you collaborate with the people of Ebonyi to provide them with consistent electricity, promptly address faults, or else the state will seek alternative power sources. I am aware that our state is not the only one facing such issues; however, other states are already making plans for alternative power supply, and you understand the implications.”
He emphasized, “We require your assistance in curbing theft. You need to deploy security personnel to safeguard your properties.”
Despite the absence of major industries in Ebonyi State, Governor Nwifuru lamented the lack of sufficient electricity supply, with residents barely receiving four hours of power a day.
He stressed that the poor power supply in the region is intolerable and cannot be tolerated any longer.
“While I cannot impede your business operations, you must provide my people with the electricity they deserve. Do not take Ebonyi consumers for granted. Our people are being overcharged, and this must cease,” warned the Governor.
“If these issues are not rectified, we will have no choice but to explore other alternatives,” added Governor Nwifuru.
Responding, the regional Managing Director of EEDC, Praveen Chorghede, mentioned that the company has devised a strategic transformation plan for improving energy supply in the Southeast.
However, he informed that ongoing insecurity in Nigeria has created a state of emergency that is hindering their operations.
Chorghede expressed gratitude to the Governor for the warm reception.
