The State House of Assembly has taken a significant step to tackle the ongoing issue of poor power supply in the Ikom Local Government Area. They’ve called on the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED), the State Electricity Agency, and the Ministry of Power to come forward and publicly explain why Ikom is suffering from such inadequate electricity. This action follows a motion brought forward by Hon. Samuel Neji Abang, the representative for Ikom I State Constituency and the Minority Leader.
Hon. Abang highlighted a critical issue: despite Ikom’s significant role in agro-business and its high population, the power supply is dismally poor. He pointed out that except for the Four Corners area, which is central to the LGA, most wards and villages don’t receive any power from the National Grid. Even the town itself barely gets about 50 hours of electricity each month, but residents are still handed estimated bills daily.
Abang attributed this problem to the inefficiency of the Electricity Distribution Company and the lack of adequate funding for government agencies to conduct proper surveys and take necessary actions. He stressed that improving the power supply in Ikom would greatly enhance the local economy and, by extension, the state’s economy.
Many legislators supported the motion, emphasizing that reliable electricity is crucial for boosting Ikom’s economic activities. They noted that the poor power supply has discouraged investment, as businesses have to rely on expensive generators, driving up production costs. Given Ikom’s significant contribution to the state’s internally generated revenue, there’s a pressing need for all stakeholders to ensure regular power supply to the area.
The Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, who represents Ikom II State Constituency, also expressed his dissatisfaction with the current power situation. He assured that the 10th Assembly would work closely with the Executive to ensure that developmental projects, including rural electrification, reach all parts of the state.
Hon. Abang’s motion calls on the State Government, through the Ministry of Power, PHED, and the State Electrification Agency, to urgently address the poor electricity supply in Ikom and its surrounding areas. This issue is particularly crucial given Ikom’s large land area of about 1,794 square kilometers and a population density of roughly 139 people per square kilometer. Known for its robust agro-business activities, especially in cocoa and plantain production, and its level of urbanization second only to Calabar, Ikom’s development is significantly hampered by inadequate power supply.
The House resolved to take the following actions:
1. Invite the Ministry of Power and the State Electrification Agency to explain why Ikom suffers from poor power supply.
2. Call on the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company to address why Ikom is not receiving adequate power from the National Grid.
3. Bring together all relevant stakeholders to ensure that Ikom and other neglected areas in the state get a sufficient power supply.
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