|
Listen to article
|
Imo State lawmakers are making progress on a bill to boost electricity supply, which has now passed its second reading in the State House of Assembly. The proposed measure seeks to address the state’s power needs, with potential benefits for households, businesses, and the wider community.
Citing the potential for transformative impact, Majority Leader Hon. Kanayo Onyemaechi, representing Owerri West State Constituency, presented the bill for its second reading on the House floor.
He emphasized that if enacted, the legislation would significantly enhance the overall quality of life for citizens, underscoring the importance of reliable electricity in driving progress and development.
The bill titled, ‘Light Up Imo Project’, according to the majority leader, emanated from the recently enacted electricity reform law number 2 of 2024, which was aimed at ensuring that the 27 LGAs in the State are provided with sustainable and reliable electricity supply.
Hon. Kanayo Onyemaechi revealed that the State Government has already forged a partnership with Orashi Electricity Company, cemented by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). He emphasized that the bill, if passed, would provide a robust legal foundation for this collaboration, ensuring its long-term viability and success.
“The main objective of the bill is to facilitate the rehabilitation, expansion and maintenance of the State electricity infrastructures, ensuring stable power generation, transmission and distribution throughout the LGAs in the State for enhancement of socio-economic activities,” he said.
Read also: Imo State On High Alert With IGP’s Aerial Patrols Initiation
The Majority Leader explained that the proposed legislation would establish a mutually binding agreement between the State Government and Orashi Electricity Company, preventing either party from unilaterally backing out.
He noted that the bill includes provisions for defaulters to compensate for any losses or damages, ensuring accountability and fostering a spirit of cooperation.
He enjoined the members to give the bill an accelerated passage considering its human importance.
With broad consensus among members, the bill was passed for the second time and sent to the House Committee on Power for additional deliberation and necessary legislative steps to advance its progress.
