JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Osamwonyi Atu, has blamed persistent vandalism for delaying electricity projects in some parts of his constituency, including Abudu.
Atu, who represents Orhionmwon East constituency, said the energy intervention covering about seven communities, a problem that has persisted for over 15 years, has suffered setbacks due to the destruction of critical infrastructure.
“During my campaign I promised to bring light and development to our people. Even though my mandate is not yet three years long, we have started the project,
“But we face constraints. Some people vandalized the cables while the work was going on,” he said.
The lawmaker urged voters to remain patient, assuring that efforts will be underway to complete the project before the end of his term.
On the occasion of his recent re-election, the MP accused opposition elements of trying to disrupt the operation.
“Some opposition members brought a protest to our rally. We did not use violence. We handled the situation and the flag was successful,” he said.
Atu described its scorecard as “transparent and verifiable”, insisting that it has carried out key interventions including the construction and renovation of schools, boreholes, street and solar lighting, as well as community halls in Abudu, Igbanke and other areas.
The Vice President further said he had awarded over 100 scholarships, with recipients in institutions including the University of Benin.
Meanwhile, the Benin South regional head of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), Engr. Henry Dafe, said the project, which began in 2025, was nearly complete before it was vandalized.
According to him, the thieves damaged key components, including copper wires, lightning rods and galvanized pipes.
“The accident caused a major setback to the project, which was scheduled to be commissioned in December last year,” he said.
