Rep. Ibe Osonwa, representing the Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia, has urged the Federal Government to prioritize a stable electricity supply in Nigeria. During an interactive session with newsmen in Umuahia on Saturday, Osonwa emphasized that achieving stable and affordable electricity would unlock Nigerians’ productive capacity, boost exportation, and reduce importation.
He stated, “Once electricity is stable and affordable and production goes up, prices of goods will become cheaper and affordable.” According to Osonwa, the key to transforming Nigeria from a consumption-driven to a production-driven economy is to focus on electricity supply and lowering production costs. This shift would enhance the manufacturing sector’s capacity, create employment opportunities, and reduce poverty and hunger.
Osonwa pointed out that Nigeria’s large population could be a significant asset for production, similar to India and China if properly leveraged with a stable power supply. He advised that electricity distribution should be handled by competent companies, regardless of whether they are Nigerian, to ensure efficiency. He also expressed concern over the current distribution companies’ failure to meet the country’s electricity needs. He cited billing irregularities, such as his community, Ebem Ohafia, receiving an N1.2 billion bill despite having no power supply for five years.
Highlighting his legislative efforts, Osonwa mentioned several bills and motions he has sponsored since the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly. These include a bill to establish a second Federal Medical Centre in Abia, bills to enhance business operations, and a bill for freight forwarders. He also sponsored motions addressing ecological challenges and establishing a security post in Ohafia to prevent cross-community clashes, like the May 10 attack on the Isu Community by the Ukwa Community in Akwa Ibom.
Additionally, Osonwa has attracted road projects to his constituency, including the Oboro-Ohafia-Okagwe-Ndi-nku-Abiriba Road. Six projects have been awarded and awaiting funding, and 15 others have been captured in the budget. He noted that the Federal Government had revoked the contract for the Umuahia-Bende-Abam-Ohafia Road due to non-performance. He stressed the urgent need for attention to the Muri and Omenuko Bridges on the road.
Osonwa praised the camaraderie within the Abia caucus in the National Assembly, attributing it to Governor Alex Otti’s exemplary leadership and performance, which has positively transformed the state’s image. He concluded by lauding Governor Otti as the best-performing governor in the country.
