The longstanding blackout in Ondo East Local Government Area may soon come to an end, as the Itesiwaju Ondo Development Group met with officials of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) on Monday, August 4, 2025, to initiate the process of reconnecting the area to the national grid.
The meeting, held with BEDC’s Regional Head, Engineer Dele Johnson, marked a renewed push by community leaders, traditional rulers, and grassroots stakeholders to resolve the power outage that has persisted since 2011.
Leading the delegation, community mobilizer Orisamuyiwa Dickson conveyed the people’s frustration and called for immediate action, including the establishment of clear timelines and BEDC’s active support in restoring electricity to affected communities.
During the meeting, traditional rulers emphasized how critical electricity is to development.
“Electricity is not a luxury,” said the Oloja of Oboto, Chief Adenuoye Awotunji. “It is a necessity for progress in our communities.”
The Baale of Laagba, Chief Adeniyi Aduragbemi, added: “My people are ready to support all efforts toward restoring power.”
Representatives of the development group and youth leaders also highlighted the impact of power outages on economic activities, especially for women and farmers. Betiku Kehinde spoke on the importance of grassroots engagement in the process, while Toyosi Olubodun pointed out that regular electricity would open up new opportunities for small-scale businesses and local agriculture.
On behalf of the youth, Jonah Temitope pledged their willingness to assist with clearing routes for power lines and providing necessary support during the restoration. Media advocate Akintayo Olumide also promised to drive public awareness through media campaigns and community outreach.
In response, Engineer Johnson commended the unity of purpose shown by the delegation and explained that BEDC would first carry out a technical review of installations along the Igba to Wasimi line.
He said the company would inspect transformers, electric poles, and cables to assess the level of work required and noted that cooperation from the community would be essential to access installations and clear powerline corridors. Once completed, he assured the findings would be submitted to BEDC’s headquarters for further consideration.
As part of the agreed steps, BEDC will commence technical evaluations in the coming days, while community leaders will coordinate town hall meetings to keep residents updated. Plans are also underway to involve political officeholders in accelerating the reconnection process at the policy level.