The Critical Stakeholders Investigation Panel has commenced town hall meetings to investigate the root causes of erratic power supply to Kebbi by the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the panel was set-up by the Kebbi Government to examine the lingering power challenges and recommend lasting solutions.
The panel comprises government officials, representatives of civil society organisations (CSOs), trade unions, artisans, and KEDCO officials among others.
NAN also reports that the panel is engaging electricity stakeholders across the state’s four emirates of Gwandu, Argungu, Yauri and Zuru to deliberate on the way forward.
Panel Chairman, Alhaji Usman Abubakar-Gwandu, who led the delegation to separate town hall meetings at Yauri and Zuru, said the committee had so far visited three emirates to seek the counsel of royal fathers and to hear from the public and KEDCO officials.
He said: “Gov. Nasir Idris mandated the committee to investigate the causes of the persistent epileptic power supply and to find practical, lasting solutions to ensure residents enjoy 24-hour electricity.”
Abubakar-Gwandu added that the committee would meet with critical stakeholders and KEDCO officials to discuss the causes of the power supply problems and propose resolutions and the clear way forward.
In separate remarks, the Emir of Yauri, Alhaji Zayyanu Abdullahi, and the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sanusi Mika’ilu described the lingering power shortage as sabotage against the government, blaming the lukewarm attitude of KEDCO personnel.
He said over 70 per cent of the power challenges were deliberately caused by the company.
The Emir of Zuru, represented by Majidadin Zuru, Alhaji Ummaru Isa, advocated that the state government develop a four-year electricity master plan to allow time for a permanent solution.
Some emirate members also criticised KEDCO’s conduct, citing poor supply, estimated billing, and failure to replace damaged equipment.
They noted that NEPA previously replaced poles, transformers and other installations but now with KEDCO in-charge, such responsibilities were left to the government and communities.
They urged the company to be fair, sincere and transparent in dealing with customers, adding that KEDCO’s demands on both government and consumers were endless.
Also speaking, Deputy Corps Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, DC Florence Adepojiu, advised the public to protect critical infrastructure provided by government at all levels.
Responding, KEDCO’s Yauri District Manager, represented by Mr Iliya Danjuma, said he had noted all the complaints and challenges and assured to forward same to his superiors for prompt action.
