The Governor of Osun State, Mr. Ademola Adeleke, has summoned the management of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) over persistent blackouts across several parts of the state, including the state capital, Osogbo.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke described the situation as “unbearable for residents.”
Adeleke lamented that field reports confirmed worsening power supply and its negative impact on businesses and residents, stressing that IBEDC must explain the challenges in order to find a lasting solution.
“I have received widespread complaints from all our major towns. Businesses are grinding to a halt. We cannot continue like this. I am inviting the management of the IBEDC for brainstorming to find a way out.
“As much as we know that the power sector is capital intensive and despite the fact that the matter is a national challenge, Osun is suffering a lot. We must work together with IBEDC for a short term solution,” he said.
The governor affirmed that the state government is pursuing medium- and long-term strategies to diversify energy sources. “As a government, the medium and long term solution is to diversify sources of energy supply. Renewable energy is a sustainable alternative but it must be affordable. Our government is working hard to support the renewable energy sector.
“Our state now has the Osun Electricity law. Before long, we are setting up the Osun Electricity Regulatory Commission to licence power generating companies and regulate the power market system. This will open up the state energy sector and also protect the best interest of IBEDC customers.”
He also acknowledged that immediate steps must be taken to address the current situation. “While that is ongoing, we must interrogate the IBEDC for immediate solutions. The Commissioner for Energy is to organise the consultation as quickly as possible. We will also invite consumer advocacy groups for the meeting.”
Commenting on support for rainstorm victims, Adeleke disclosed that the state emergency agency is compiling the names and details of affected persons and has been directed to ensure that all victims are captured.
He urged victims to submit their details at the agency’s office, assuring them that the state government is working to secure both local and national support.
The governor equally revealed that contacts have been established with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Economic Council (NEC) to mobilise assistance for the victims.
He further commended Osun West Senator, Lere Oyewumi, for raising the matter on the floor of the Senate.
