Group decries power woes, rising natural disasters in Osun 

A civil society organisation, The Osun Masterminds, has raised concerns over persistent electricity challenges in Nigeria and increasing natural disasters in Osun State.

Speaking during the March State of the State address on Tuesday, the group’s Executive Director, Prof Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, highlighted the impact of unstable power supply on businesses and livelihoods.

Prof Oyedokun-Alli recalled that the organisation had earlier called on President Bola Tinubu to take urgent action to address the country’s electricity challenges.

According to him, “electricity, which should serve as a foundation for industrial growth, has instead contributed to the closure of many businesses nationwide.

“Our concern then was that electricity supply in Nigeria… has become the biggest contributor to the death of many businesses in Nigeria.”

The group also referenced recent remarks by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who appealed to Nigerians for more time to improve electricity supply.

Oyedokun-Alli stated that such appeals were inadequate given the responsibilities attached to the minister’s office.

“such pleas have no place in the schedule of responsibilities that he swore to discharge,” he noted.

He pointed to the performance bond signed by the ministers in November 2023, questioning whether the targets set for the Ministry of Power had been met.

“We wonder therefore, what the KPIs handed to the Minister were, and if he has indeed adhered to them,” he said.

The organisation called on the Federal Government to take decisive action, stressing that the economic burden of alternative power sources continues to weigh heavily on businesses.

On environmental concerns, the group expressed alarm over the increasing frequency and intensity of rainstorms and flooding in Osun State.

It noted that recent incidents in Osogbo and surrounding communities caused widespread destruction, raising fears ahead of the peak rainy season.

The group cautioned against politicising such incidents, stating that “a period like this does not call for politicking, rather for urgent practical action”.

While acknowledging the state government’s response, including visits to affected areas, the organisation stressed the need for concrete measures beyond official statements.

It recommended steps such as “improved emergency response systems, enforcement of building standards, clearing of waterways, and better dissemination of meteorological information to residents.”

The group while urging governments at all levels to prioritise effective policies and implementation added that society should function optimally for the good of all.

Group decries power woes, rising natural disasters in Osun