By Jude Atupulazi
The Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) has condemned what it describes as the lackluster approach of Prof Chukwuma Soludo towards addressing the pressing electricity concerns in Anambra State, regretting that despite the glaring need for decisive action, Prof Soludo’s leadership has faltered, leaving the people in the dark.
In a press release signed by Prosper Odinga, the group’s spokesperson, BDFCG, said Governor Soludo’s actions had unfortunately, not aligned with the best interests of Ndigbo, noting that upon the enormous support he received during his election as the Governor of the state, he had continued to neglect the welfare of the people.
‘Last year, Gov Soludo signed an MoU with EEDC regarding 24-hour electricity – a move the Biafra De Facto Customary Government denounced. Today, there is no sign to indicate that he understands the importance of transitioning electricity regulation from the exclusive list to the concurrent list. He has been closely associated with the owners of EEDC, stifling all business initiatives in Anambra State. The BDFCG initially believed that Soludo would represent the political face of Biafra Land due to his distinguished tenure in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and his expertise as a first-class economist.
‘However, his recent actions have revealed shortcomings in his leadership abilities. The BDFCG urges all Biafrans to prepare for a day of reckoning.
‘In light of recent developments, the BDFCG extends heartfelt congratulations to Governor Alex Otti of Abia State for his commitment to transparency and accountability in governance. The audit of the State account of the previous administration has unveiled the extent of corruption perpetrated by the former governors. It is evident that these individuals are nothing but common criminals who must be held accountable for their actions. We urge Alex Otti to uphold the principles of justice and integrity by making the audit findings available to the public,’ the group said.
It furthermore commended Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for what it described as his swift establishment of the State Electricity Regulatory Commission within a remarkably short period, remarking that the transfer of regulatory power from NERC to ESERC signified a pivotal step towards ending the reign of ‘the oppressive monopolist known as EEDC.’
It posited that the days of exploitation and impunity under EEDC’s control, must come to an end, stating that it stood in solidarity with Governor Mbah’s efforts to ensure a fair and equitable electricity distribution system in Enugu State.
‘It is imperative to recognize electricity as a fundamental public good that demands government’s intervention and investment. The BDFCG firmly believes that achieving 24-hour electricity supply at affordable rates is essential for the industrialization and prosperity of Biafra Land. We call upon progressive governors in our region to join hands with us in reclaiming control of our land and its vast resources.
‘We emphasize that stable electricity cannot be guaranteed as long as decisions regarding oil and gas exploration and production remain in the hands of authorities in Abuja. True autonomy and self-determination are prerequisites for achieving our vision of a prosperous and self-sufficient Biafra Land,’ the group noted.
It reaffirmed its commitment to championing the interests of the people of the Southeast and advancing their collective aspirations for a brighter future.