The Benue State Government has intensified efforts to restore electricity across the state following a power outage that has disrupted domestic activities, commercial operations and essential public services.
The government disclosed that Governor Hyacinth Alia had ordered urgent action to address the situation, with consultations involving Jos Electricity Distribution Plc (JED), security agencies and other relevant stakeholders ongoing to facilitate the restoration of power.
In a statement released on Saturday, October 24, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Chief Solomon Iorpev, acknowledged the difficulties residents were facing as a result of the prolonged interruption in electricity supply.
“The Benue State Government is deeply aware of the hardship that the interruption of electricity supply has caused our people.
Families, traders, artisans, students, hospitals and small businesses are all affected, and we feel your pain,” the statement said.
The government also dismissed allegations levelled against it concerning the circumstances surrounding the disconnection, maintaining that it had already communicated its position on the controversy.
While reiterating its stance, the state government condemned attacks on individuals and institutions, warning that anyone found culpable of assaulting or threatening workers, or destroying property, would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Iorpev disclosed that security agencies had been instructed to carry out a comprehensive and unbiased investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the disagreement.
He added that efforts to reach a resolution through negotiations were continuing, even as the government appealed to JED and the electricity workers' union to prioritise the welfare of residents by restoring power while addressing their grievances through dialogue.
The government further assured electricity workers of its readiness to provide the necessary guarantees to enable them to discharge their responsibilities without fear for their safety.
Residents were equally advised to remain peaceful and patient throughout the process, with the government cautioning against taking the law into their own hands or engaging in activities that could worsen the situation and hinder the restoration of electricity.
The statement also called on members of the public to safeguard electricity infrastructure and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency.
The Benue State Government pledged to keep residents informed of developments, reaffirming its commitment to protecting their welfare, security and dignity while working towards a lasting resolution of the power supply crisis.
Benue Govt moves to restore electricity, begins talks with JED