kakalistiq.com reports that Epe, a historically vibrant community in Lagos State, is grappling with a prolonged power outage that has lasted nearly six months. Concerned residents and stakeholders are now taking action under the banner of #FixEpePower, calling for urgent solutions to restore electricity and secure the area’s energy infrastructure.
In a viral post shared on social media, the group stressed that for over two decades, Nigeria’s electricity sector has undergone several transformations, including privatization and decentralization. Recent policy changes, such as the removal of electricity from the exclusive legislative list and partial subsidy removal, have allowed states and private entities to run independent power grids. While these reforms have led to improvements in many parts of the country, the group noted that Epe remains in darkness due to persistent vandalism of power infrastructure.
The affected areas; Epe Central, Eredo, and Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDAs, receive power from Ikorodu. However, continued sabotage of the transmission infrastructure has left homes, businesses, and essential services without electricity, stalling economic and social activities despite interventions from service providers and private stakeholders.
Determined to find a lasting solution, Concerned Epe Indigenes and Residents; the same group that successfully championed the #FixEpeRoads campaign in 2020are now mobilizing resources and engaging key stakeholders to address the power crisis. Their goals include:
Protecting Energy Infrastructure: Establishing a Joint Security Force comprising local and conventional security agencies to prevent vandalism.
Engaging Ikeja Electric: Assessing the extent of damage and working on a sustainable funding plan for immediate power restoration.
Long-Term Solutions: Advocating for the construction of an Epe Power Substation or an Independent Power Plant to provide a stable energy supply.
Public Awareness: Educating residents on the importance of protecting public infrastructure, including power lines, roads, and utility installations.
The initiative is expected to deliver:
Enhanced Security: A community-led security system to safeguard power installations.
Immediate Power Restoration: Businesses and households will regain electricity, reviving economic activities.
The Birth of ‘Epe Energy Forum (EEF)’: A dedicated platform to sustain advocacy for improved electricity supply in the region.
Residents, businesses, and stakeholders are urged to support the #FixEpePower movement by raising awareness on social media and participating in community-driven initiatives.
The campaign has been endorsed by key political, traditional, and economic stakeholders, including youth groups, local government officials, and royal fathers across the Epe Division.
With collective action, Epe’s energy crisis can be resolved, paving the way for a more prosperous and electrified future.
