Bendel Mirror | News Blog
PHOTO Inside Edo Community mobilizes for two-day demonstration to LG secretariat, Edo govt house over years of blackout ‎

Written By: Emmanuel Ikhenebome

10 Dec 2025 07:26 AM

Abudu, Edo State – In a bold display of communal resolve, residents of Abudu in Orhionmwon Local Government Area (LGA) of Edo state are rallying for a two-day peaceful protest against electricity blackouts that have plagued the area for 10 years.

‎The initiative, spearheaded by local activists and amplified through social media, seeks to pressure electricity providers and state authorities into restoring power supply to the agrarian zone.

‎These demonstrations underscore the deepening frustration in rural areas where the lack of electricity and other basic amenities force many to migrate to urban settlements.

‎The outages in Abudu and adjoining communities have crippled farming operations, small businesses, and household life.

Despite government efforts like the 2021 transformer installations in Abudu and 2025 rural electrification contracts, locals report that there is still no power.

‎"Abudu have endured this blackout for long. Now, more like an embarrassment to us because we can't even speak about others outside.

‎"The so-called leaders don't feel the shame; they can't imagine the essence of electricity, the backwardness the situation caused to socioeconomic activities. We can't continue like that," said one organizer, who do not want his name mentioned

‎Organizers have outlined a structured plan for the demonstrations, emphasizing non-violence and unity under hashtags like #LightIsKey, #CommunityFirst, and #PowerToThePeople.

‎The call to action urges residents to bring friends, family, and neighbors to amplify their demand for accountability from the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) and Edo State Government.

‎On January 12, 2026 the protesters are expected to gather at the Abudu Motor Park, from there match to the local government secretariat, where they plan to present a petition highlighting specific grievances.

‎Day two, January 13, 2026, the residents intends to converge at the assembly grounds and proceed to the Government House, seeking a direct audience with state officials to discuss immediate interventions.

‎As word spreads via community networks and online platforms, early indications suggest strong turnout, with calls for solidarity echoing similar past actions in neighboring states.

‎Recent petitions from communities like Ughiole and Ubiane in Etsako West LGA mirror Abudu's plight, petitioning the House of Representatives over nine months without supply. Experts warn that without swift reforms, such grassroots movements could intensify, potentially disrupting the state's economic recovery.

‎Community leaders conclude their mobilization with a unifying message, "Let's unite as a community and fight for our rights. Together, we can make a difference."

‎As January approaches, all eyes are on Abudu, whether this stand will finally illuminate the path to power restoration or join the long list of unheeded cries.

Comments


Mr Noah

Abudu need light pls

10 Dec 2025 11:01 AM