Youths protest blackout by BEDC in Delta community

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By Monday Osayande

Aggrieved Youths in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area, Delta State, on Thursday, stormed Delta State Government’s House, Asaba, protesting the intentional blackout imposed on them by the Benin Electricity Distribution (BEDC).

The protesting youths claimed that the prolonged blackout had created an environment for crime and criminal activities, including kidnappings to thrive.

In a letter addressed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the youth said the blackout, “exacerbated by the company’s continued Imposition of heavy estimated electricity bills, do not reflect actual consumption, thus creating undue financial burden on our people.”

The letter was signed by the President-General, Okpanam Youth Organization, Comrade Lucky Okolo, Comrade Chukwuma Abumujor, and six others.

They urged the governor to address the issue because of the severe implications for the safety, security, and economic well-being of the community.

According to them, “For several years, Okpanam has been plunged into darkness, with no consistent or reliable power supply despite repeated complaints and appeals to BEDC.

“The company’s failure to restore electricity, coupled with its insistence on exorbitant estimated billing, demonstrates a blatant disregard for the welfare of our residents.

“The absence of lighting and security infrastructure, which relies heavily on stable power, has left our streets vulnerable, making it easier for criminals to operate under the cover of darkness.”

The Chief of Staff to the Delta State Governor, Prince Johnson Erijo, told the protesters that the government is almost at the final stage of creating a proper legislative framework to address the challenge of power.