Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has issued a strong condemnation of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), holding them directly responsible for the persistent and crippling power outage affecting numerous communities across the state.
Governor's Stern Accusation Against BEDC
Represented by the Chairman of Ughelli North Council, Jaro Egbo, at the 2025 Graduation and Induction Ceremony of the Transcorp Power Vocational Skills Training and Entrepreneur Empowerment Programme in Ughelli, the governor accused BEDC of a deliberate act. He stated that despite receiving a reliable and sufficient supply of electricity from Transcorp Power Plc, the distribution company has failed to distribute this power to the people.
This failure, according to the governor, has plunged residents, businesses, and institutions into persistent darkness, severely hampering economic and social activities. "Most of the blame goes to BEDC," Governor Oborevwori declared. "The story is that Transcorp Power transmits power to BEDC, but they don't distribute."
Commendation for Transcorp and Call for Accountability
In a clear contrast, Governor Oborevwori commended Transcorp Power for its role in providing a steady transmission of energy. He urged the power generation company to find a way to work more effectively with BEDC to ensure that the electricity reaches end-users. "You must find a way to work in harmony with BEDC to improve power supply to the people," he emphasized, highlighting that power is essential for homes, companies, and for the vocational trainees who need it to establish their small-scale industries.
At the same event, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Power Plc, Peter Ikenga, reaffirmed the company's long-standing commitment to its host communities. He noted that for over a decade, the company has invested in strategic initiatives designed to address critical needs and uplift the quality of life for residents.
Transcorp Power's Community Development Initiatives
Ikenga used the occasion to highlight several key corporate social responsibility projects undertaken by Transcorp Power. He commended the 75 beneficiaries of the vocational training programme for their perseverance and potential.
He also disclosed details of other impactful projects, which include:
- Awarding nine undergraduate students from host communities ₦200,000 each as part of an annual bursary initiative.
- Expansion of electricity distribution networks to improve power access in Eruemukohwarien New Layout.
- Rehabilitation of 300kVA and 500kVA transformers in the Ekakpamre community.
- Provision of desks to enhance learning conditions in local schools.
- Donation of comprehensive ICT facilities, including computers, desks, chairs, and CPUs, to Adagwe Grammar School in Eruemukohwarien.
Regarding the ICT donation, Ikenga added, "With these resources, students can now sit for computer-based exams directly within their school premises. This aligns with our long-term vision to build knowledge-based skills in the communities where we operate."
