Ukodhiko lauds traditional rulers for peace in Isoko ~ Truth Reporters

 

The Delta State Commissioner for Energy, Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has commended Isoko traditional rulers for ensuring peace and security in their kingdoms. 

Engr. Ukodhiko, gave the commendation during a royal visit by Isoko traditional rulers in the spirit of the season at his Erawah-Owhe country home in Isoko North Local Government Area of the State. 

He expressed gratitude to the royal fathers for celebrating with him during his inauguration saying "I thank you my fathers for celebrating with me in my inauguration as member of the state executive council," 

Addressing the royal fathers on the effort of the Delta state government through his ministry to enhance power supply in Isoko nation, he said "electricity issues is not a state government issue but that of the private sector BEDC and what ever we spend is been spent into some other persons business and what the state government is doing is just an intervention. 

"State government has no law in place to generate and distribute power, but we are now putting laws in place which will be sent to State House of Assembly that will enable us to generate and distribute power. 

"However, government is trying to intervene in reinforcement of the  transmission lines," he said 

He also briefed the traditional rulers on government effort in establishing power plants in three different locations of the state which includes Ozoro, Warri and Agbor. 

"In each of the power plants we will be setting up energy hub which will create employment and increase the internally generated revenue of the state. 

"We have been able to secure some funds through CBN intervention for BEDC to complete the abandoned 132 KVA within the next few months. 

"Improving electricity in Isoko we have also planned to hook up Isoko to the Amukpe grid as the line that came to Isoko is the longest line which serves Isoko, Ogume and Kwale and some of the communities in Isoko like Umeh, Erowah and Aviara that has been cut-off will be integrated. 

"By the grace of God we are going to electrify 20-30% of communities in Isoko with street lights," Ukodhiko added. 

Pastor Ukodhiko, further encouraged the royal fathers to continue to engage on activities that engenders peace and unity among the people. 

He thanked the royal fathers for supporting Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, led administration and keying into his peace and security agenda in state and for accepting his invitation. 

Responding on behalf of the traditional rulers the Ovie of Ozoro HRM Barr. Anthony Ogbogbo, said, "I am happy to be here today for some of our narrative may change henceforth. 

"You are among one of our Isoko sons that came from the private sector that are doing things differently," the Ozoro monarch stated. 

He prayed to God to grant the Energy Commissioner wisdom and understanding on behalf of the kings. 

On his part, HRM Romanus Inana, Okpuzo of Owhe kingdom, said, "I am standing here to affirm what the Ovie of Ozoro has said on behalf of the traditional rulers, God bless you and continue to elevate you my son and grant you all your desires and aspirations." 

Present during the visit were Dr. Barr. Paul Oweh, Commissioner representing Isoko Ethnic nationality in the board of DESOPADEC, Hon. Mike Ogwah, Senior Special Assistant, SSA on political matters to the Governor, Chief. Emmanuel Edevor and Hon. Peter Emaziye, Senior Special Assistant, SSA on chieftaincy affairs to the Governor, among others.