By Allen Sowore, Esq.
At the recent Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Lagos, Ondo State’s homeland security initiative, Amotekun, was celebrated as a leading example of state policing. Additionally, Ondo State was among the few states that did not witness protests during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement. As the top cocoa producer in the country, Ondo continues to lead in several sectors.
On Tuesday, September 10th, 2024, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa added another achievement to Ondo State’s growing reputation by launching the O’datiwa Mass Electricity Metering Programme, an initiative aimed at transforming the power sector. The goal is to eliminate the “Wicked Estimated Billing System” and ease the burden on residents by providing fair and accurate billing.
Engr. Tunji Light-Ariyomo, Chairman of the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Transition Committee, aptly described this development as groundbreaking. Ondo State is now the first to operationalize the power sector law in Nigeria, with Governor Aiyedatiwa leading the way in making meters available to residents at a subsidized rate.
During the launch event at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that this initiative would put an end to arbitrary and inflated electricity bills. The Governor explained that the programme aims to create a transparent, fair, and efficient electricity supply system, ensuring accurate metering so that citizens only pay for the energy they use. This initiative marks the beginning of the end of energy theft and inefficient billing practices in Ondo State.
In addition to this achievement, Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted the recent transfer of electricity oversight from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to the State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (SERB). This change will allow the state to manage its electricity sector more effectively, creating policies tailored to the needs of its people.
The Governor also announced the state’s ambition to venture into power generation, transmission, and distribution, calling on both distribution and generation companies to collaborate with Ondo State to achieve these goals.
Governor Aiyedatiwa has shown a clear vision for governance, despite opposition and unfounded criticism. His administration remains focused on transforming the state’s economy and revitalizing its critical sectors.
On August 25th, 2024, the Governor inspected the 30 MW Turbine Power Plant located along the Ore-Sagamu Expressway. Established in 2012 under former Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, this project represents a significant investment in the state’s future. Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his commitment to completing the power plant, which will serve the entire Ore area, including the Industrial Park.
The Managing Director of BEDC, Deolu Ijose, reiterated the importance of electricity in Ondo State’s development. With the O’datiwa Mass Electricity Metering Programme, the state has introduced a new era of accessible governance, offering residents easier access to prepaid meters and fairer electricity consumption.
In essence, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration is focused on ensuring Ondo State actively participates in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution for the benefit of its people. In less than a year, two key principles have emerged in his administration: Inclusivity and People’s Welfare—the guiding laws of this leadership.
Comrade Allen Sowore, Esq.
SSA to the Ondo State Governor on Strategic Communication
September 11th, 2024
