Sapele residents lament poor power supply

RESIDENTS of Sapele on Monday, decried the incessant power outage by the authorities of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC).

They consequently demanded an 18-hour supply of electricity daily in the ancient town.

They also condemned the attendant crazy bills forced down the throats of residents by BEDC.

Disenchanted, Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya, Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area, Hon Ejaife Odebala, elders and leaders of various political and pressure groups in Sapele have also joined the call for 18 hours electricity daily.

At a stakeholders’ meeting in Asaba, the speaker urged BEDC to discontinue the issuance of estimated bills.

“Don’t take people for granted. Your actions show great disrespect for all of us. Sapele residents are paying bills. BEDC must provide meters to consumers.

The officials must respond to fault reported by consumers. They must communicate.

The irregularity in power supply has disrupted daily life,” he said.

Episcopal Vicar and Dean, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Sapele, Father Christopher Ekabo, also lent his voice, suggesting ways to engender a lasting solution to the crisis.

“At least 12 hours to 18 hours electricity should be given to Sapele.

Anything less will not be good for the people.

No more estimated bills. Prepaid meters should be made available to curb further collection of money by staffers of BEDC.

The load shading should be done in a proper manner.

The excuse of non-payment of bills should be looked into,” the priest pleaded.

He urged BEDC to make a formal and public apology for it actions.

Meanwhile, after much deliberations, the stakeholders agreed on eight hours of power for a start, subject to further improvement within the shortest time possible.