Former Governor Ihedioha Rejects Allegations of Sabotaging Imo State Power Project
Former Imo State Governor, Rt. Honourable Emeka Ihedioha, has expressed shock and indignation over allegations linking him to purported plans to sabotage the Imo State Electricity Project, a government initiative aimed at providing round-the-clock power to the State.
The controversy arose after the Imo State Government, in a statement signed by its Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, claimed that the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) had allegedly concluded plans to disrupt the State Electricity Project through widespread power outages. The statement asserted:
“The Imo State Government has obtained credible intelligence of plans by the management of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to unleash major power outages in Imo State in a bid to frustrate and sabotage the Light up Imo Project which will soon provide uninterrupted light to all parts of the State.
“The Government has ample evidence indicating that EEDC is determined to ensure that this effort of the Imo State Government to provide reliable and affordable electricity for Imo people is frustrated.
“The idea behind the planned massive power outage by EEDC is to turn around and blame the installation process of the Orashi Electricity Company, the State Government’s licensed company, for the blackouts.”
Amid the tense political climate in the State, speculation quickly spread that the Government was indirectly pointing fingers at Ihedioha, the leading opposition figure. Rumors were fueled when an aide to the Governor reportedly mentioned Ihedioha’s name in connection with the alleged sabotage, suggesting he was a co-owner of EEDC.
Reacting to the accusations, Ihedioha dismissed the claims as “unfounded” and “wicked,” stressing in a personally signed statement:
“I do not own EEDC in any form, whether whole or part; beneficial or nominal. I am not on its Board. I hold no share. Notably, I acknowledge and commend the current Imo State Government for its ongoing power initiatives.”
He further highlighted his support for the State’s electricity agenda, noting:
“Any genuine effort to expand energy access, strengthen infrastructure, and improve the well-being of our people deserves encouragement.”
Ihedioha also recalled his own contributions to power development in Imo State, saying:
“As Governor, I championed this same vision when I established the Imo State Power and Rural Electrification Agency (IPOREA), the first dedicated institutional framework created to advance electricity development in the State.”
In addition, he highlighted his efforts to promote culture and intellectual discourse:
“In the spirit of continuity and cultural advancement, I am pleased to recall that I revived the renowned Ahiajoku Lecture Series during my administration after nearly a decade of dormancy. Ahiajoku represents the intellectual soul of our people, and its preservation is essential to our cultural identity. I am, therefore, delighted that the current administration has also reinstated the programme, reinforcing a pedigree that enriches Imo’s traditional and academic heritage.”
Ihedioha concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the State, its people, and its institutions:
“My commitment to the development of Imo State, its institutions, its people, and its future, remains unwavering. I will continue to support any initiative that strengthens our State, uplifts our citizens, and promotes progress grounded in truth, integrity and vision.”
For context, Ihedioha served as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2015 and as Governor of Imo State from 2019 to 2020. He is a Knight of St Christopher, Anglican Communion, and holds the National Honour of CON.
