BENUE, Nigeria – The Benue State Government has intensified efforts to restore electricity across the state following a prolonged power interruption that has disrupted households, businesses and essential public services.
The state government said Governor Hyacinth Alia had directed urgent action to address the situation, with consultations involving Jos Electricity Distribution Plc (JED), security agencies and other stakeholders ongoing.
In a statement on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Chief Solomon Iorpev, acknowledged the hardship caused by the interruption and said the government was working towards a resolution. “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 rejected allegations levelled against it over the circumstances surrounding the disconnection, saying it had previously communicated its position on the dispute.
Iorpev said security agencies had been directed to conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the disagreement.
The government condemned attacks on individuals and institutions, warning that anyone found responsible for assaulting or threatening electricity workers or destroying property would face prosecution in accordance with the law.
It also assured electricity workers that it was prepared to provide the necessary guarantees for their safety. The state government urged JED and the workers’ union to prioritise residents’ welfare and resolve their grievances through dialogue.
The government appealed to residents to remain calm and patient while negotiations continued, cautioning against actions that could worsen the dispute or delay the restoration of electricity. It also called on the public to protect electricity infrastructure and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
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