Edo people under the aegis of End BEDC Oppression Now have sent a very strong message to the Benin Electricity Distribution Company that they are not Father Christmas and would not continue to pay the company for services not rendered.

This came as a response to a statement by Mrs Evelyn Gbiwen the Public Relations Officer of BEDC stating that the electricity distribution company is not a charity organisation while reacting to a press conference by electricity consumers on 16 February where they issued a 14 days ultimatum to BEDC to resolve issues of electricity supplies and high handedness in their operations and alleged extortion of Edo people.

In a statement signed by the Convener of End BEDC Oppression Now Comrade Emmanuel Ogbidi pointed out that Edo people and electricity consumers are neither beggars nor Father Christmas adding that they will not continue to pay for services not rendered.

According to the statement which was made available to newsmen in Benin City It has come to our attention the response of the PRO of BEDC Mrs Evelyn Gbiwen in responding to some media houses after the world Press Conference by Edo people on Monday 16 02 2026 where we issued a 14 days ultimatum to them to resolve issues of electricity supplies and high handedness in their operations in extorting Edo people.

In her response she posited that BEDC is not a charity organisation Agreed But the big question is are Edo people asking for free services from BEDC Has BEDC ever done anything for free in Edo state Has BEDC ever embarked on any corporate social responsibility that is visible to the blind and audible to the deaf in Edo So it speaks volume of how BEDC has reduced relegated Edo people as though we are beggars at their mercy.

But dear BEDC Edo people are not beggars We are not conquered people and we are not also Father Christmas who will continue to pay for services not rendered You cannot continue to milk Edo people dry in a bid to satisfy your insatiable appetite for profits through dubious means of bullying intimidation and extortions.

Dear BEDC it will do your organisation good to wake up to your responsibilities of providing power for Edo people connect communities whom you have thrown into utter darkness meter Edo people with the speed of light because sooner than ever nobody will pay you estimated bills anymore.

The Progressive Next Generation Initiative has commended Enger Jennifer Adighije, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited, applauding her immense contributions to youth empowerment, leadership development, and national progress.

In a statement issued on Monday, January 30, 2026, and personally signed by its Convener, Hon Jeffery Omoh Ozemegwa on behalf of the group, PNGI described Adighije as “a patriot, visionary leader, and dependable partner in the task of building the PNGI vision.”

The group noted that over the last two and half years, Adighije has done incredibly well and has exemplified purposeful youth leadership. She has championed several initiatives focused on empowerment, skill acquisition, and medical outreach through her foundation and related platforms that engage and uplift young Nigerians.

The statement read, “The next generation appreciates you. We commend your courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project. You remain a shining example of service, sacrifice, and faith in our nation.”

The Convener also reaffirmed PNGI’s mission as a data-driven, research-based, and advocacy-oriented platform within the All Progressives Congress, dedicated to promoting informed political participation and leadership accountability.

The group further appreciated Adighije for identifying with the PNGI vision and accepting to serve as its matron, noting that her endorsement has greatly advanced the group’s visibility, activities, and impact.

As Nigeria enters a crucial decision-making period, PNGI pledged to continue upholding the values of transparency, accountability, and participatory governance in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“On behalf of the Convener, leadership, and members nationwide, PNGI warmly wishes Jennifer Adighije a productive political year ahead,” the statement concluded.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria has cleared numerous illegal structures dangerously close to its high-voltage power lines in parts of Enugu State. The action is part of a sustained effort to protect critical electricity infrastructure and ensure public safety.

The demolition specifically targeted fences and other constructions built within the Right of Way near Tower 31 of the Ugwuaji–Makurdi 330kV Double Circuit Line at Akpuoga Nike in Enugu East. Other encroaching structures along a separate 132kV line corridor were also removed, as they posed severe safety risks and blocked access for maintenance crews. In a statement, the General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, explained that the company had repeatedly warned residents prior to the action.

“Prior to the commencement of the demolition exercise, TCN had consistently carried out sensitization campaigns warning residents and traders against building or conducting activities within transmission corridors,” Mbah said. She emphasized that the clearance was unavoidable to prevent accidents, protect lives and property, and guarantee unimpeded access for linesmen during inspections and emergency repairs.

The company reiterated the mandatory safety clearances for transmission lines, stating that a 50-meter corridor is required for 330kV lines and a 30-meter corridor for 132kV lines. Mbah stressed that strict adherence to these standards is crucial for both reliable power supply and community safety. “The action was unavoidable, necessitated by the need to prevent accidents, safeguard lives and property, and ensure unhindered access for linesmen during routine inspections and emergency repairs,” Mbah added, urging prospective developers to respect the regulations.