- Residents of nine Ogoni communities in Khana Local Government Area, Rivers State, celebrate electricity restoration after eight years of blackouts.
- Khana Caretaker Committee Chairperson Marvin Yobana is praised for his swift action in initiating the Rural Electrification Rehabilitation Project and clearing outstanding electricity bills.
Khana Local Government Area residents in Rivers State are rejoicing after the restoration of electricity to nine Ogoni communities for the first time in eight years. The affected communities, including Gbam Bonue, Kereken Boue, and Nyorkwiri Boue, had been in a total blackout since 2016, severely impacting local economic and social activities.
Excited residents took to the streets, celebrating what many described as a “miracle.” The Paramount Ruler of Gbam Boue, Neeka Daasang, expressed amazement at the return of power after eight years, highlighting its potential to boost development and revive local commerce. He praised Khana Caretaker Committee Chairperson Marvin Yobana for his swift action in addressing the power issue.
Victor Oko-Jumbo, Speaker of the Rivers House of Assembly, also commended Yobana for his commitment to improving living conditions in Khana. He noted his success in clearing outstanding electricity bills owed to the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company. Oko-Jumbo lauded Yobana’s leadership, describing it as a high standard for others to follow.
Yobana, who initiated the Rural Electrification Rehabilitation Project shortly after taking office, explained that the project was a response to the long-standing darkness faced by the communities. He expressed surprise at why previous administrations had not addressed the issue sooner and emphasized that the restoration of power aligns with Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s call to meet the people’s needs.
Yobana also acknowledged the support of the Boue and Gwara communities in protecting electrical infrastructure during the blackout. This development marks a pivotal moment for the Khana Local Government Area, signalling a renewed focus on addressing the basic needs of its residents and laying the groundwork for future growth and stability.