By Kayode Olabanji, Okitipupa

Residents of Okitipupa have expressed deep dissatisfaction with the state of electricity distribution in their area, despite the commissioning of the 132KV transmission line and substation in Ode Erinje.

The substation, intended to supply power to over 2,000 communities across five local government areas in the Ondo South Senatorial District, has failed to meet expectations, leaving most residents in darkness.

According to findings, only streets in the main town of Okitipupa, including Broad Street and a few others, are benefiting from the recent restoration of electricity, while many others continue to struggle for inclusion.

Mr. Jan Oladipupo, a resident of Okitipupa, noted that less than 5% of the population has benefited from the project, despite enduring a 15-year electricity blackout that devastated the local economy. He criticised the authorities for failing to address the community’s challenges, adding that residents are forced to shoulder the cost of infrastructure such as poles and transformers without tangible results.

Mr. Morebise John from the Idepe community shared similar frustrations, highlighting how residents have contributed significant amounts of money to repair and relocate transformers in hopes of accessing electricity. Despite these efforts, they remain without power.

He lamented, “We’ve paid and worked tirelessly to ensure our inclusion in the power supply network, but, till now, nothing has changed. We are tired and fed up.”

Some residents, in their response, called on government for urgent intervention to alleviate their struggles after enduring 15 years of hardship.

Several issues have been identified as contributing to the ineffective electricity distribution. Although the substation was designed to enhance power delivery, the lack of functional equipment, transformers, and distribution lines in many communities has hindered its impact. Residents doubt they can resolve these challenges without further government intervention.

Sources disclosed that many residents are forced to contribute funds for essential infrastructure, such as electricity poles and transformers, which should ideally be provided by the government or relevant agencies.

Meanwhile, the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) has been accused of mishandling the situation. Residents allege that BEDC officials have failed to adequately respond to their plight, leading to widespread frustration and distrust.

Local businesses reliant on electricity, such as welders, cold stores, and small-scale industries, are struggling to survive, resulting in economic stagnation.

Students and schools are disadvantaged, with limited access to power for study and digital learning. Clinics and hospitals face challenges in preserving medicines and operating essential medical equipment.

The quality of life for residents remains poor, with many forced to rely on expensive alternatives like generators for basic needs.

Residents are appealing to the government and relevant agencies to take immediate action to ensure the benefits of the Ode Erinje Substation reach all affected communities.

“We have suffered enough,” said another resident. “Fifteen years of darkness was unbearable, and now we are forced to fight for what should be our right. The government must step in and end this injustice.”

The plight of Okitipupa and neighbouring communities highlights the urgent need for a strategic approach to electricity distribution and infrastructure development in underserved areas.

Residents are urging the government to intervene, ensuring that the benefits of the power project reach all affected communities, emphasising that 15 years of suffering without electricity should not be prolonged.