By Paul Olayemi

Major stakeholders in Delta State’s hospitality industry have pointed fingers at the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) Plc., accusing them of crippling the sector with epileptic power supply and alleged power racketeering.

Hoteliers in Uvwie, Warri, Sapele, Ughelli, and Udu specifically lamented the situation, explaining that officials from both TCN and BEDC were diverting electricity meant for businesses to residential areas, often through the highest bidder.

This alleged racketeering, coupled with the already unreliable power supply, has thrown the hospitality industry into turmoil. The 33KV dedicated line for businesses, which previously provided at least 18 hours of daily electricity, has dwindled to a mere 6 hours or even less, forcing hotels and other businesses to rely heavily on expensive diesel generators.

Mr. Austin Wareyai, CEO and Chairman of Lascurt International Hotel in Uvwie, spoke on behalf of hoteliers, expressing their frustration. He blamed the crisis on TCN’s involvement in power racketeering, stating that many hotels are on the verge of collapse as their revenue disappears into the constant purchase of diesel to keep their businesses running.

Wareyai further highlighted the absurdity of the situation – despite the abysmal power supply, hoteliers are still slammed with exorbitant electricity bills by BEDC. He pleaded with Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to intervene by holding both TCN and BEDC accountable and ensuring proper electricity distribution, particularly for business areas.

He urged the government to consider proactive measures, similar to the recent initiative in Aba, Abia State, to provide alternative power sources.

Painting a grim picture of the industry’s struggles, Wareyai said, “These are very trying times…The little money we are generating goes back into buying diesel to keep the hotel afloat.” He added, “Many hotels are on the verge of collapsing, some owing workers salaries.”

The hotelier emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting the significant role the hospitality industry plays in job creation within Delta State. He warned that the inability to pay salaries could lead to security concerns as frustrated employees are forced to resign.

Wareyai concluded with a plea, “Government needs to urgently act…Businesses don’t survive in this kind of harsh environment.” The future of Delta’s hospitality industry hangs in the balance, with hoteliers calling for immediate action from the government and a stop to the alleged racketeering by TCN and BEDC officials.