I don’t own EEDC, not sabotaging Uzodimma’s power project – Ihedioha

I don’t own EEDC, not sabotaging Uzodimma’s power project – Ihedioha

By Jeffrey Agbo

Former governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha, has dismissed reports alleging he owns the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) and is sabotaging the project initiated by Governor Hope Uzodimma to improve electricity supply in the state.

Ihedioha said those peddling the narratives were relying on fiction, not fact.

In a statement dated November 24, the ex-governor equally commended Imo State Government for its ongoing power initiatives.

He said, “My attention has been drawn to baseless and completely unfounded allegations suggesting that I, as the purported ‘owner’ of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company EEDC, am sabotaging the ongoing Imo State Power Project. Let me state firmly and unequivocally that these claims are false. I do not own EEDC in any form, whether whole or part, beneficial or nominal. I am not on its board, I hold no shares, and I do not participate in or influence its corporate decisions in any way. Those peddling these narratives are relying on fiction, not fact.

“Notably, I acknowledge and commend the current Imo State Government for its ongoing power initiatives. Any genuine effort to expand energy access, strengthen infrastructure, and improve the wellbeing of our people deserves encouragement. As Governor, I championed this same vision when I established the Imo State Power and Rural Electrification Agency (IPOREA), the first dedicated institutional framework created to advance electricity development ln the state. It was established to provide stability, coordination, and long-term structure for power solutions in Imo. I remain proud of that foundation, and I welcome any progressive steps taken today that align with the goal of a more prosperous and energy secure Imo.”

A statement by the Imo State commissioner for information, public orientation and strategy, Declan Emelumba, had said the government obtained “credible intelligence” of plans by the management of EEDC to “unleash major power outages in Imo State in a bid to frustrate and sabotage the Light up Imo project which will soon provide uninterrupted light to all parts of the state.”

Emelumba said, “The idea behind the planned massive power outage by EEDC is to turn around and blame the installation process of the Orashi Electricity company, the state government’s licensed company, for the blackouts.”

“EEDC is already aware that the first phase of the Light Up Imo Project will significantly cover the entire Owerri metropolis and is therefore afraid of losing its monopoly and the attendant revenue. That is the reason for this desperation,” the commissioner added.

Meanwhile, Ihedioha also commented on the Ahiajoku Lecture Series which he revived during his brief time as governor, praising the Uzodimma administration for reinstating the programme.

He said, “In the spirit of continuity and cultural advancement, I am pleased to recall that I revived the renowned Ahiajoku Lecture Series during my administration after nearly a decade of dormancy. Ahiajoku represents the intellectual soul of our people, and its preservation is essential to our cultural Identity. I am therefore delighted that the current administration has also reinstated the programme, reinforcing a pedigree that enriches Imo’s traditional and academic heritage.

“My commitment to the development of Imo State, its institutions, its people, and its future remains unwavering. I will continue to support any initiative that strengthens our state, uplifts our citizens and promotes progress grounded in truth, integrity and vision.”