The Delta State Commissioner for Power and Energy, Hon. Sunday Tataobuzogwu, on Friday paid an official apology visit to the Obuzor of Ibusa, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Louis Nwoboshi, and the youth of the community. The visit, which aimed at mending strained relations over a recent power infrastructure controversy, was facilitated by the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Innocent Esewezie.
The delegation, which included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and senior engineers, came in response to a recent uproar following an attempted relocation of transformers from the Ibusa substation by officials of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) without prior consultation. The move sparked strong resistance from the youth, prompting swift intervention by Hon. Esewezie, who helped de-escalate the situation and restore calm.
Addressing the monarch and community stakeholders, Commissioner Tataobuzogwu expressed deep regrets over the miscommunication and assured residents that the substation remains a top priority for government activation in the shortest possible time. He emphasized the state government’s commitment to delivering sustainable electricity to Ibusa and surrounding communities.
In his remarks, Hon. Esewezie condemned the unauthorized actions of the BEDC officials, stating that such moves could have severely damaged the longstanding relationship between the community and government. He praised the decision to engage the Obuzor and Ibusa stakeholders in dialogue, describing it as the right approach toward achieving inclusive and lasting solutions.
His Royal Majesty, Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi, warmly received the delegation and recounted Ibusa’s long-standing efforts to develop its infrastructure through communal self-help. He stressed the importance of consultation and diplomacy, urging government officials to always engage with communities to prevent future misunderstandings.
The Obuzor also pledged to attend further meetings with relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that the Ibusa substation is energized and that proper procedures are followed moving forward.
The meeting was attended by members of the Obuzor-in-Council, traditional leaders, political leaders, and representatives of Ibusa youth.