Source: Converseer
Residents of Ekorinim in Calabar Municipality, particularly those living near the residence of Governor Bassey Otu, have been without electricity for over six months due to a faulty transformer, plunging the community into total darkness since November 2024.
Despite several efforts, including financial contributions by residents to resolve the issue, no tangible progress has been made. One frustrated resident said, “Since November, we’ve had no electricity, and it has been extremely difficult. In Calabar, no light means no water, so we’re suffering on both ends. I’ve spent so much on fuel, my generator is now faulty, and nothing is changing.”
According to the residents, staff from the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) confirmed that the community’s transformer is faulty, but no replacement or repair has been carried out.
Some residents also allege that they reached out to Her Excellency, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, the Governor’s wife, but claim they were met with an insensitive response. One said, “She allegedly told us that we didn’t vote for her husband, so why are we seeking help. This is heartbreaking, especially for those of us who put relationships and loyalty on the line to ensure APC won here in 2023. Her mantra is ‘People’s First’, but we feel abandoned.”
In February 2025, a journalist from Converseer raised the issue during a media chat with Governor Otu at the temporary Governor’s office. The Governor acknowledged the situation, stating, “Electricity is not as demanding as roads. In a month or two, we’ll be opening our own power station.” He added that the state was considering acquiring the Odukpani Power Plantto tackle the state’s electricity challenges. “We need about 70% power distribution but currently receive less than 10%,”he noted.
When contacted for clarification, Mr. Darlington Edem, Deputy Press Secretary to the Governor, said the State Electrification Agency (SEA) has been distributing transformers across the state and assured that the Ekorinim area would soon be included. On the First Lady’s alleged statement, Edem expressed doubt, saying, “I know Her Excellency well she cares for all Cross Riverians, and I doubt she would make such a remark.”
Meanwhile, a PHED staff told Converseer that the company lacks the capacity to provide new transformers. “We are a distribution company we can only service existing equipment, not supply new ones,” he said.
The transformer issue is not isolated to Ekorinim, as many areas within Calabar metropolis reportedly face similar electricity supply challenges, with PHED appearing overwhelmed.
Residents continue to appeal to Governor Otu to extend his administration’s “Season of Sweetness” to their community by urgently addressing the power crisis.
