The Bayelsa State Government has cited vandalism as the primary reason for the delay in completing repair works on 16 collapsed transmission towers in Rivers State.
This was disclosed by Technical Adviser to the Bayelsa Governor on Print Media, Public Affairs, Comrade Wisdom Ikuli during on the spot assessment of the pace of ongoing repair works on the vandalized transmission towers in the forest.
According to Comrade Wisdom Ikuli, Technical Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor, repair works on the towers have been completed, but vandals stole already installed conductors, hindering progress..
Ikuli emphasized that despite 16 out of 19 collapsed towers being located in Rivers State, the Bayelsa State Government is committed to restoring power to Yenagoa.
He assured that with the current pace of repair works, resources, and manpower mobilized, the people of Yenagoa will soon enjoy electricity supply.
Managing Director of Bayelsa Electricity Company Limited, Engr. Olice Kemenanabo, expressed concerns that the federal government has not shown commitment to reconnecting Bayelsa State to the national grid, despite owning the collapsed transmission towers.
He alleged a conspiracy against Bayelsa State and called on the federal government to deploy security apparatuses to protect property and lives.
Kemenanabo highlighted the disparity in treatment, citing instances where states in northern Nigeria were promptly reconnected to the national grid after vandalism, while Bayelsa State continues to face challenges.
He added that Bayelsa State Government has shouldered the expenses for repair works, which have been hindered by repeated vandalism, and urges the federal government to take decisive action to address the situation and restore power to the state.