- Senator Ned Nwoko has urged the Delta State Government to manage the local electricity sector to improve power supply and attract investment.
- Nwoko highlighted the need for local access to power from the Okpai Power Plant, which has not benefited the host communities despite increased generation capacity.
Senator Ned Nwoko, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparation and Repatriation, has called on the Delta State Government to assume control of the state’s electricity sector to enhance power supply and improve local access to electricity. He believes state management will help fulfil the Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed with oil companies for Corporate Social Responsibility projects and attract more investors to local power initiatives.
Nwoko highlighted the longstanding issue faced by the Ndokwa people, who have long generated power for the nation while experiencing inadequate electricity in their communities. He urged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to ensure that captured power is redirected to benefit residents.
The senator has partnered with two major investors interested in collaborating with the Delta Government through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). He pointed out that states have successfully managed federal road projects to secure refunds and suggested that the electricity sector equally deserves such intervention.
Gloria Okolugbo, Nwoko’s Communication Team Leader, supported the senator’s call, asserting that state government intervention would transform Delta State’s economy. She criticised recent online media reports that politicised discussions about the power plant, labelling them as speculative and uninformed.
Nwoko provided details about the Okpai Power Plant in Ndokwa East LGA, which has been operational since 2005 and has increased its capacity to 980 MW by March 2022. Despite this, host communities have not benefited from the generated power. He emphasised that the Electricity Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA) 2005 entitles host communities to benefit from energy projects on their land.
The senator reiterated his call for the state government to facilitate access to power and implement the 132KVA Double Circuit transmission line intended for Ndokwa/Ukuani communities. He stressed that domesticating the Electricity Act 2023 would attract further investment, enable mini-grids, and support independent power projects for underserved areas in the state.
Nwoko concluded by urging cooperation and prioritisation of the issue, aiming for a significant improvement in local power supply without engaging in unnecessary controversy.