By Garry Osaro
A high-level stakeholders’ meeting aimed at resolving the lingering electricity supply challenges in Edo State was stalled on Tuesday at the Government House in Benin City.
The meeting, convened by Governor Monday Okpebholo, brought together officials of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), representatives of civil society, and other stakeholders to deliberate on prolonged blackouts and consumer protection concerns.
The civil rights group, Organized Edo Against BEDC Oppressions, said it was fully prepared for engagement, following the governor’s earlier assurance during a protest that affected residents would be included in the dialogue process.
The group described the initiative as a necessary step toward addressing service delivery gaps and alleged exploitative billing practices.
However, proceedings were adjourned due to an urgent engagement involving the governor, with assurances that a new date would be communicated.
Civil society representatives reiterated concerns over estimated billing, infrastructure maintenance costs allegedly borne by consumers, and what they termed operational inefficiencies.
Policy analysts note that the development underscores the broader challenges within Nigeria’s power distribution framework, particularly around service accountability, consumer rights enforcement, and regulatory oversight.
Stakeholders expressed hope that the rescheduled meeting will produce actionable measures to improve electricity supply reliability and restore public confidence in the sector.
