Lokoja residents protest epileptic power supply in Kogi

Residents from the Lokoja Local Government Area in the capital of Kogi State took to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) area office to express their concerns about persistent power outages and irregular power supply in the state. The frustrated residents urged the company to promptly address the issue, emphasizing that the lack of consistent power was adversely affecting businesses in the region.

Led by Mallam Illiasu Zakari, the chairman of the ‘Light up Movement’ pressure group, the protesters highlighted that they had been grappling with power outages from the period before Christmas and New Year until the present, with no remedial action taken by AEDC.

The group also demanded an end to exorbitant billing practices by AEDC in the state, stating, “Failure to correct the abnormalities or complaints enumerated will leave us with no choice but to mobilize for the next phase of these demands. Enough of AEDC surcharging us and putting the movement in bad light in the minds of the public while reneging on all agreements reached in previous engagements.”

Displaying placards with messages such as “We are tired of frequent power outages, epileptic power supply in Lokoja and its environs,” “AEDC should give us light to boost our economic fortunes in the state,” and “Stop the outrageous billings,” the protesters voiced their dissatisfaction.

Inuwa Isa, one of the protesters, lamented the scarcity of electricity even before the festive season, leaving residents in perpetual darkness. Emmanuel Ajibogun, the Area Manager of AEDC in Lokoja, addressed the aggrieved residents, appreciating their peaceful conduct and assuring them that their grievances would be examined. He committed to organizing a round table discussion with the community’s leadership in the near future.

The adverse effects of the power situation were particularly pronounced among residents, iron fabricators, petty traders, restaurants, bars, and sachet water sellers, who reported diminished sales due to the challenges.