The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company has restored electricity to Bekwarra Local Government Area in Cross River State, ending 15 years of complete blackout.
Residents of the area praised the administration of Governor Bassey Otu for fulfilling his campaign promise to bring light back to the council.
PHEDC Branch Manager for Cross River North and Central, Mr. Innocent Inaku, commended the governor for his dedication to the project. He explained that the blackout lasted so long because of vandalism and outdated power infrastructure.
“The whole of Bekwarra has been in darkness for more than a decade,” Inaku said. “The governor directed the state rural electrification agency to develop a phased plan to reconnect and rehabilitate the power network.”
Inaku noted that while power restoration is still ongoing, significant progress has been made. Six transformers were installed at key locations, including Ijibor, Ugboro, St. Augustine Primary School, Ukpa, Afrike Community, and St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.
“Two transformers, one at the Catholic Church in Ijibor and another in Ugboro, have already been energized, bringing electricity to parts of the community,” Inaku said.
He highlighted some challenges, including reliance on a power supply from Abakaliki in Ebonyi State and network issues caused by the long period without electricity. However, he assured residents that these problems are being addressed.
“The next phase will extend power supply to communities like Anyekam, Ibiaragidi, Begam, and Abuchiche,” he added.
The Ada Bekwarra (traditional head), Signor Omang, described the governor as a “God-sent leader” and thanked him for responding to the community’s needs.
“Our major concern was light,” Omang said. “For several years, we have been in darkness. This restoration will improve our economy and quality of life.”
He explained how the lack of electricity had affected local businesses and artisans.
“Electricity impacts the economy, especially for welders, carpenters, tailors, and hairdressers who rely on power for their work. Many businesses suffered, and people were forced out of work. This light is not just electricity; it is hope for a better future,” he said.
Omang recalled the community’s struggles in the past, including fruitless visits to officials and the Minister of State for Power. “For years, all our efforts were in vain. Now, in just a year and a half, Governor Otu has made it possible for us to have light again,” he said.
Residents celebrated the restoration, describing it as a step toward progress and a revival of their community.
