Residents from seven communities in Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State have been grappling with an ongoing power outage lasting over 18 months. The affected communities encompass Oke-Oyi, the headquarter of the council, alongside Agbeyangi, Oke-Ose, Panada, Badi, Adelu, and Oloro.
Ahmed Seriki, the chairman of the Oke-Oyi Community Development Association, shared that these areas have been without power for nearly two years. He urged the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to address the power disruption, especially as it’s significantly hampering local commerce amidst economic challenges.
The communities had approached IBEDC multiple times and even pooled funds to purchase electrical cables, but to no avail. “Many entrepreneurs have relocated due to the power crisis, and those who remain face severe financial challenges,” Seriki pointed out.
Jamiu Oladokun, the association’s secretary, highlighted that local hospitals are incurring high costs due to their reliance on generators. A local, Jimoh Yewande, also voiced concerns about the safety risks of such prolonged darkness.
Olori Busolami Tunwase, the Corporate Affairs Manager of IBEDC, has pledged an investigation into the matter to rectify the situation promptly.
