Thursday, 11th December; 2025– In a move to end over seven years of devastating darkness, the House of Representatives has resolved to take immediate legislative action to reconnect Uzea Kingdom in the Esan North–East and Esan South–East Federal Constituency to the National Electricity Grid.
The resolution, sponsored by Hon. Henry Odianosen Okojie, was passed following an urgent debate highlighting the severe socio-economic disruption caused by the prolonged power outage.
Key Concerns and Impacts
The House formally Noted the initial successful completion of the electricity project in 2010, which marked a significant development for the community. However, the House expressed deep concern:
Prolonged Darkness: The disconnection of electricity between 2015 and 2016 has plunged the communities into total darkness for over seven years, crippling socio-economic activities.
Vandalism Risk: The disconnected high- and low-tension lines have left critical electricity infrastructure vulnerable to vandalism by criminals.
Stagnant Development: The lack of reliable electricity is hindering local businesses, leading to unemployment and a decrease in the standard of living, thereby impeding socio-economic development, educational advancement, and healthcare provision.
The House is Cognizant that the restoration of electricity is essential to stimulate economic development and significantly improve the standard of living for the residents of Uzea Kingdom.
Legislative Resolutions and Mandates
To address this critical situation, the House passed the following resolutions:
Comprehensive Assessment and Replacement: The House Urges the Federal Ministry of Power and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to immediately conduct a comprehensive assessment of the vandalized power lines and ensure the swift replacement of all damaged equipment to restore power supply.
2026 Budget Provision: The House Also Urges the Federal Ministry of Power to make adequate provisions for the reconnection of electricity power supply to Uzea Kingdom and its communities in the 2026 budget estimate.
Mandate for Oversight: The Committees on Power and Rural Electrification are Mandated to ensure strict compliance with these resolutions and report back to the House within four (4) weeks for further legislative actions.
The legislative body remains committed to ensuring that all Nigerian communities have access to basic infrastructure, recognizing reliable electricity as a fundamental catalyst for growth and improved welfare. The urgency of this resolution underscores the House’s dedication to alleviating the suffering of the people of Uzea Kingdom.
