Otti Inaugurates Abia Electricity Board, Vows to Disconnect Umuahia from National Grid

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has inaugurated a five-member board of the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency (ASERA), charging them with the responsibility of concluding negotiations with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to acquire the Umuahia ring-fenced power zone.

The newly inaugurated board comprises Mr. Onyegbule Emeka (Chairman/CEO), Mr. Ikowu Ukwu (Executive Director), Engr. Iheanyi Eze (Executive Director), Onwuegbule Kareem Eberechukwu (Non-Executive Director), and Dr. Joy Oti (Non-Executive Director).

Speaking during the inauguration at Government House, Umuahia, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to solving the persistent power challenges in the state capital. He revealed plans to remove Umuahia from the national grid and redirect surplus energy from the Geometric Power Plant in Aba.

“We are finalizing discussions with EEDC to acquire the Umuahia ring-fence area, which covers Umuahia North, Umuahia South, Ikwuano, Bende, Ohafia, Isuikwuato, Umunneochi, and Arochukwu,” the Governor said. “Once the acquisition is complete and payments are made, Umuahia will be disconnected from EEDC.”

Otti highlighted that the Geometric Power Plant, which he played a significant role in operationalizing after 20 years in development, currently operates with three turbines generating 141 megawatts, with a fourth turbine expected soon. He noted that Aba requires only 100 megawatts at peak demand, leaving a surplus of 88 megawatts which could be redirected to power Umuahia instead of feeding the national grid.

“Power is central to our industrialization strategy. Without reliable electricity, progress will be difficult,” he stated.

Governor Otti emphasized that ASERA board members were appointed based on merit and expressed confidence in their ability to deliver, especially under the guidance of the State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr. Ikechukwu Monday.

Responding on behalf of the board, Executive Director Engr. Iheanyi Eze pledged to realize the Governor’s vision by ensuring the provision of reliable, affordable electricity and building a customer-focused energy regulatory system.