By Prof. Onwueri Longinus

I read with concern a recent press statement from the Imo State Government, signed by the Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, alleging that the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company Plc (EEDC) intends to introduce major power outages in Imo State to frustrate the ongoing Light Up Imo Project. At first, I assumed it was misinformation from attention seekers; however, seeing the report carried by reputable national dailies confirmed that it was indeed an official statement from the government.

The release raised numerous questions for me. What verifiable evidence does the Imo State Government rely on to assert that EEDC is planning deliberate electricity outages? Are there internal documents, technical notices, or correspondences from EEDC supporting such claims? Why would EEDC risk reputational or operational damage by withholding supply in one of its service territories? How would such alleged outages be executed without affecting EEDC’s infrastructure and revenue streams? Could the announcement be a pre-emptive reaction to anticipated service challenges linked to ongoing reforms? These and many more questions naturally arise from the claims presented.

The statement also suggested that EEDC might later blame Orashi Electricity Company Ltd for any potential blackouts. Such assertions make it necessary for Imolites to understand the structure, processes, and development of Orashi—its licensing, its ownership, and the formal procedures that led to its current role in the state’s electricity framework. Transparency is essential in matters involving essential public utilities.

According to public records, Orashi Electricity Company Ltd was incorporated at the Corporate Affairs Commission on May 28, 2024, with shareholding involving the Imo State Government and private individuals. Following its incorporation, the Imo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ISERC) issued it an interim licence on July 13, 2024. Considering the short interval between the creation of ISERC and the granting of licences, many residents reasonably seek clarity on the criteria used and the extent of due process followed, especially given the technical complexity of electricity distribution.

It is also important to note that ISERC itself was established on June 3, 2024, following the adoption of Nigeria’s Electricity Act 2023, which grants states the authority to regulate electricity generation and distribution. NERC formally acknowledged on June 22, 2024, that Imo State was free to operate its own electricity market, with operations scheduled to commence on July 1, 2024. For many observers, these rapid developments raise questions that deserve open explanation to strengthen public understanding and trust.

A closer look at the incorporation, licensing and commencement timelines of Orashi has prompted inquiries among Imolites regarding the company’s operational capacity and preparedness. These questions include: What is the extent of government involvement relative to private ownership? Who are the directors and what experience do they bring? What are the company’s technical resources and ability to manage large-scale electricity distribution? Such questions do not allege wrongdoing but reflect the valid concerns of citizens seeking clarity on a project advertised as belonging to the people.

Further questions relate to procurement: What method was used to select Orashi Electricity Company Ltd as a distribution operator? Was there a competitive bidding process? How was technical capacity assessed, and by whom? What is the source of funding for its operations—state allocations, private capital, grants or loans? These inquiries align with global best practices, which promote transparency when public-interest utilities undergo structural changes.

Beyond ownership and licensing, there is also interest in Orashi’s operational readiness. Imolites deserve to know whether the company has documented financial statements, publicly available technical plans, engineering personnel, metering strategies, and network expansion blueprints—elements that are standard for electricity distribution firms. Full disclosure of such information helps to build confidence and reassure consumers about the long-term viability of electricity reforms.

Another critical area is stakeholder engagement. Public consultations are a statutory requirement in many electricity frameworks before distribution licences are issued. Such consultations help assess competence, provide room for consumer input, and ensure accountability. Many citizens have expressed the view that more open engagement and clearer communication from all parties—government, regulators, and operators—would improve understanding of ongoing reforms.

The absence of publicly released technical details, feasibility studies or safety inspections has led to wider public debate about preparedness, not as an accusation but as a call for improved transparency. For a project of this magnitude, Imolites expect publication of operational strategies, environmental assessments, and technical partnerships. Transparent procurement and clear documentation of the company’s capacity would help address concerns and reassure the public that the Light Up Imo initiative is on solid ground.

Additionally, many have called for clarity regarding Orashi’s introduction to the public. Given that electricity distribution affects homes, businesses, and public institutions, consumers typically expect clear communication from service providers. This includes public briefings, customer-engagement forums, and dissemination of operational guidelines. Such measures would help consumers understand service expectations, processes for complaints, and the role of each electricity provider within the state.

Ultimately, the unfolding situation between the Imo State Government, EEDC, and Orashi Electricity Company underscores the importance of factual communication, transparency, and accountable governance. Electricity is a critical public service, and citizens have the right to clear, verifiable information about changes that affect their daily lives.

It is essential for the state government, regulators and electricity providers to engage openly, address public concerns, and work collaboratively to ensure the success of the Light Up Imo project. Imolites deserve clarity, and robust communication from all stakeholders will help build trust, reduce speculation, and ensure that the ongoing reforms deliver the reliable power supply the state seeks to achieve.