A concerned Bayelsan, Comrade Ebi Sikpi, has raised concerns over the delayed supply of electricity following the commissioning of the 60-megawatt gas-fired power plant in Yenagoa by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Comrade Sikpi said he felt “really sad to see that for over 12 hours after the 60MW gas turbine was commissioned… most parts of the state capital are still in darkness,” particularly the Elebele–Opolo axis despite its proximity to the project site.
He questioned the readiness of the project, expressing concern that government and residents may have been misled by contractors handling the facility. He warned that it would be embarrassing if the plant had not begun generating and supplying power several hours after commissioning.
According to him, “it would have been better if the plant was fully working and generating power before the commissioning,” noting that the situation undermined public expectations.
Comrade Sikpi also described the development as unfair to residents who turned out in large numbers for the commissioning, saying they endured long distances, harsh weather conditions, and hours of waiting.
He further stated that it would be “an exercise in futility and a great disservice” if power was not quickly distributed to the state capital after such a high-profile event.
He urged the government to take urgent steps to ensure that the state is fully illuminated without delay, warning that residents were becoming anxious and agitated over the continued blackout.
Comrade Sikpi also criticised the contractors handling the project, insisting there was no justification for parts of the state remaining in darkness after the commissioning.
He added that the significant investment in the project and the efforts of the state government should immediately translate into visible benefits, stressing that residents should not experience further delays in power supply.
