The State Chairman of NYCN, Comrade Douglas Ochishi, made this known while addressing journalists in Abakaliki, where he expressed deep concern over the persistent outages and unstable voltage levels affecting households and businesses.
Ochishi described the situation as both “untenable and inhumane,” noting that residents are subjected to prolonged blackouts and, in some cases, supplied with voltage levels too low to power basic appliances.
According to him, “The current power situation in Ebonyi State reflects a troubling pattern of poor service delivery. Consumers are left in darkness for extended periods, yet continue to receive estimated billing for electricity not consumed.”
The youth leader criticized the distribution company’s billing practices, particularly the continued issuance of charges to both rural and urban consumers despite erratic or non-existent supply.
He warned that such practices undermine public trust and exacerbate economic hardship.
He further highlighted the broader implications of the power crisis, stating that unreliable electricity supply is negatively impacting small and medium-scale enterprises, increasing the cost of doing business, and posing health risks amid rising temperatures.
“The absence of stable electricity has far-reaching consequences—from economic stagnation to public health concerns. It is unacceptable that residents are made to bear the burden of inefficiencies within the power distribution system,” he added.
Ochishi cautioned that growing frustration among youths in the state could escalate if urgent corrective measures are not implemented. He stressed that the council may be compelled to mobilize civic actions should the situation persist.
While reiterating the readiness of Ebonyi youths to support initiatives aimed at improving the power sector, he emphasized that such cooperation must be anchored on transparency, fairness, and measurable improvements in electricity supply.
The NYCN chairman also disclosed plans to engage key stakeholders in the state’s power ecosystem, including the Ministry of Power and Energy, as well as the EEDC management, in a bid to seek sustainable solutions to the ongoing crisis.
He underscored the critical role of stable electricity in driving industrial growth, enhancing security, and improving the overall quality of life.
Ochishi, however, acknowledged the efforts of Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, Governor of Ebonyi State, in improving electricity access in parts of the state, noting that ongoing interventions in urban centres and across the 13 local government areas are commendable.
He urged all relevant authorities to intensify efforts toward achieving a more reliable and equitable power supply system for the benefit of all residents.
