The Ondo State government has declared four local government areas in the southern senatorial district as unserved due to BEDC’s failure to restore power in 14 years. The affected areas are Ilaje, Irele, Okitipupa, and Ese Odo. The state government has invited interested power distribution companies to take over electricity distribution in these areas.
According to Engr. Alabi Johnson, Special Adviser to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Energy, this move aims to improve electricity infrastructure and supply to the affected areas. The state government has been engaging with stakeholders to address the region’s electricity challenges.
The Ondo South Senatorial District was declared an unserved area in May 2023 due to BEDC’s non-compliance with established conditions for adequate electricity supply. Despite the completion of the Ode-erinje Transmission Sub Station, two of the four local governments that should have benefited still lack power due to BEDC’s failure to build necessary infrastructure.
The Ondo State Government has directed the Ondo State Power Company to address the issue of consumers being asked to pay for damaged infrastructure, which is illegal under the Ondo State Electricity Power Sector Law 2020. The four local government areas will now be open to investors for distribution and licensing. The state government will not condone any unlawful acts by distribution companies operating within its territory.
BEDC has been directed to report to the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Bureau for further instruction. This development marks a significant step towards addressing the long-standing power outage in the affected areas and promoting economic development in the region.
