Okowa and Sheriff
Over 100 women from several communities in Delta State have staged a protest over prolonged electricity shortages, warning politicians ahead of the 2027 elections that “no light, no campaign.”
The demonstration, held in Oleh, brought together market women and business owners from Isoko South and Isoko North local government areas, including Irri, Ozoro, Emede, Ofagbe, and nearby communities.
The protesters carried placards demanding urgent restoration of power supply and accused political leaders of neglecting the long-standing electricity crisis in the oil-producing region.
They called for the completion of the abandoned NDDC 132/33KVA substation in Ozoro, which they say would help restore stable electricity to the area.
Many of the women lamented that years of blackout have crippled small businesses, increased operating costs, and forced them to rely on expensive fuel-powered generators.
They argued that despite Isoko contributing significantly to Nigeria’s oil wealth, the communities have continued to suffer poor infrastructure and lack of basic services, especially electricity.
“We cannot continue to live in darkness while contributing to the nation’s economy,” the protesters said, insisting that political campaigns in 2027 should not take place in their communities unless power supply is restored.
In a show of solidarity, the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) worldwide backed the protest, describing the situation as economic hardship caused by government and regulatory neglect.
INYA President, Eniwake Orogu, said the collapse of electricity supply has destroyed businesses, increased poverty, and deepened frustration across the region.
He urged authorities including the state government, the Niger Delta Development Commission, and power regulatory bodies to urgently intervene.
The group insisted that no meaningful political engagement should take place in communities still suffering from prolonged blackout, stressing that electricity remains essential for economic survival and development.
The protest adds to growing calls across oil-producing communities in Nigeria for improved infrastructure and fair distribution of national resources.
