Okpebholo Joins Benin Protesters Against BEDC Over Power Outages And Billing Issues
Governor Monday Okpebholo joined protesters in Benin, Edo State, on Monday as residents demonstrated against frequent power outages and the billing practices of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC).
The protest started at Ring Road in the city center, with demonstrators carrying banners reading, “We say no to BEDC oppression,” “No light, no bill,” and “Edo people say no to bulk billing.”
Residents voiced frustration over constant blackouts, estimated bills, and the high cost of prepaid meters. Speaking for the group, Ogbidi Emmanuel described the protest as a response to what he called “oppressive practices” by BEDC.
“We pay for light, and they give us darkness,” he said, questioning the transparency of the company’s free meter distribution scheme and calling for a public list of beneficiaries. He added that meters reportedly cost between N150,000 and N400,000.
Okpebholo addressed the crowd, urging calm while promising swift engagement with relevant stakeholders. “We need to engage them to see how we can bring in more investors into the business of electricity distribution. Once that is done, we will all be more assured of stable power. Let us remain calm and allow the engagement to take place,” he said.
The governor noted that BEDC is privately owned and not directly controlled by the state government, but assured residents that steps would be taken to address their concerns. He announced a stakeholders’ meeting for Tuesday and invited protesters to nominate five representatives to take part.
“I was just passing by and saw people gathered here at Ring Road. I stopped to find out what the issue was, and they said you were protesting. I said, yes, we are all youths, and I have come to join you. The only way we can fight this is to bring new investors into the business of distribution. We will break the monopoly. We want to operate like the telecom sector, where you have alternatives. Bringing in more investors will give our people options,” Okpebholo added.
The demonstration remained peaceful, with security personnel ensuring order as protesters dispersed after the governor’s address. BEDC has yet to issue an official response to the complaints.
