The Oyo State Government has expressed disappointment with the Federal Government's handling of the power supply situation in Nigeria. According to a statement by the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the state's use of generators to power streetlights is a result of the unreliable electricity from the national grid. This move has been criticized by the Sharafadeen Alli Campaign Organisation.
Dr Olanrewaju stated that the Makinde administration will not apologize for keeping the state illuminated and secure, citing the need for alternative power sources due to the Federal Government's failure to deliver regular electricity supply. He challenged Senator Sharafadeen Alli, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to direct his concerns to the Federal Government. Olanrewaju emphasized that the use of diesel-powered generators was a temporary measure until a more reliable power source is available.
The Oyo State Government is pursuing alternative energy sources, including a 5MW solar plant that is being upgraded to 12MW. This move demonstrates the administration's commitment to sustainable and independent energy solutions. According to Olanrewaju, the state government is focused on delivering infrastructure and development projects, rather than engaging in political exchanges.
The criticism from the Alli campaign organisation also touched on the renovation of the Lekan Salami Sports Complex. Olanrewaju responded that the project has enabled Ibadan to host international football fixtures. He attributed the temporary pause in international matches involving Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) at the stadium to further upgrades being undertaken to meet evolving international standards.
The statement also addressed the disagreement between Senator Alli and Governor Makinde over the governor's earlier description of the senator as a "jejune lawyer." Olanrewaju defended Makinde's professional record as an engineer, noting that the governor had been honoured as a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers. He emphasized that the administration will remain focused on "real development" and will not be distracted by political attacks.
Olanrewaju described the criticism from the Alli campaign organisation as an attempt to distort the government's record, insisting that Oyo State will continue with its development agenda. The administration's focus on infrastructure development and energy solutions is aimed at improving the lives of residents in the state.
The public spat between the Oyo State Government and Senator Alli highlights the ongoing challenges facing Nigeria's power sector. The Federal Government's inability to provide reliable electricity supply has led to states like Oyo exploring alternative energy sources. The development of solar plants and other renewable energy solutions is seen as a step towards achieving sustainable energy independence.
Key points
- Oyo State government criticizes FG over power supply
- State government defends use of generators for streetlights
- Administration focused on infrastructure development and energy solutions
