The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke has summoned the management of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) over the persistent blackout affecting major towns across the State.
The power outage followed a destructive rainstorm last Saturday that damaged electricity infrastructure and properties in Osogbo and other parts of the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor expressed concern over the worsening situation, noting that businesses were being severely impacted while residents continued to face hardship.
“I have received widespread complaints from our major towns. Businesses are grinding to a halt. We cannot continue like this. I am inviting the management of IBEDC for discussions to find a way forward,” Adeleke said.
He acknowledged the challenges facing the power sector nationally but stressed the urgent need for immediate solutions to ease the burden on residents.
The governor added that while short-term fixes would be discussed with IBEDC, his administration is also focusing on long-term strategies, including diversifying energy sources through renewable options.
According to him, plans are underway to establish a state electricity regulatory commission to oversee power generation and distribution, with the aim of improving service delivery and protecting consumers.
Adeleke also directed the state Commissioner for Energy to convene a meeting involving IBEDC officials and consumer advocacy groups to address the crisis.
On the impact of the rainstorm, the governor disclosed that the State Emergency Management Agency had begun compiling data on affected residents and urged victims to come forward for possible assistance.
The storm, which swept through Osogbo and surrounding communities, destroyed several buildings and disrupted electricity and telecommunications infrastructure, leaving many areas without power.
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