People of Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State have expressed joy, following the restoration of electricity to nine Ogoni communities for the first time in eight years.
Gbam Bonue, Kereken Boue, and Nyorkwiri Boue, among other communities, had been in total blackout since 2016, with this severely impacting economic and social activities.
Hundreds of residents from these agrarian communities trooped out en-masse, with many describing the restoration as a miracle.
The Paramount Ruler of Gbam Boue community, Neeka Daasang, expressed disbelief at the return of power after years of darkness, noting that the development would enhance growth and revive local trade.
“We have endured prolonged darkness which has drastically hindered development, business and security.
“The restoration of power to the community will usher in development and rejuvenate commerce.
“We are delighted with this historic achievement that has given us something to hope for again”, he stated.
Daasang praised Khana Caretaker Committee chairman for the swift action taken just three months in office.
Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Victor Oko-Jumbo lauded Yobana for his dedication to improve the living conditions of Khana people.
Oko-Jumbo commended the Caretaker Chairman of Khana Local Government Council, Malvin Yobana for clearing the backlog of electricity bills owed Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company, PHED.
He described the chairman as an exemplary leader that had set a high standard for others to emulate.
“This demonstrates the Khana chairman’s focus on governance and the needs of the people”, he said.
Oko-Jumbo affirmed that local government elections would hold on October 5 in spite of calls for postponement.
Yobana explained that after his appointment, his administration initiated the Rural Electrification Rehabilitation Project to end the years his people spent in darkness.
He wondered why residents had been allowed to live in darkness for so long under successive administrations.
“After assuming office, Governor Siminalayi Fubara urged us to address the needs and aspirations of our people.
“Later, we brainstormed on how to use the lean resources at our disposal to alleviate the sufferings of the people of the area.
“This led to the decision to embark on rural electrification rehabilitation project to restore electricity to long-neglected areas”, he said.
Yobana commended Boue and Gwara communities for protecting existing electrical infrastructure in spite of the prolonged lack of power. NAN
