The Truth Behind Senator Ned Nwoko’s Push for Delta’s Water and Power Needs: A Fair Assessment

FRANK IROROH

One doesn’t need to be a strategic thinker to understand that water and electricity are basic necessities for any region’s development and everyday survival. The availability of these two essentials ensures the massive growth and sustainability of any community. Given Delta State’s natural wealth, these should be readily available. But what’s hindering the full realization of these basics in Delta North? Two critical projects: the completion of the Ogwashi-Uku Dam for water supply and irrigation, and the step-down of 100 megawatts from the Okpai Independent Power Plant. Two vital projects—each with life-changing potential—have been delayed, both of which are estimated to cost far less than N50 billion. This is an amount that is not even up to what the state receives from FAAC within a six-month period.

These projects, though primarily the responsibility of the Federal Government, can be executed by the state government under a reimbursement arrangement. Such a partnership is neither unprecedented nor difficult, especially for a state as resource-rich as Delta. When projects like these—fundamental to the development of its citizens—are at stake, it should never be about who’s responsible but rather how quickly they can be executed to benefit the people.

Now, what efforts have been made by the Senator representing Delta North, and why should the state government get involved?

In March 2024, Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, moved a motion in the National Assembly, pushing for the immediate step-down of 100 megawatts from the Okpai Independent Power Plant. The Senate responded by mandating the Minister of Power to resolve the inexplicable delays. However, Senator Nwoko did not rest on his laurels, waiting for feedback from the Senate. He personally engaged with the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and the MD of Transmission Company of Nigeria, Engr. Abdul-Aziz Sule, to find a way forward. The response was clear: the Federal Government lacked the funds to proceed immediately.

In the same vein, Senator Ned Nwoko took up the Ogwashi-Uku Dam case. Upon inquiry, the Ministry of Water Resources confirmed that the Federal Government had completed its portion of the project and, in 2019, handed it over to the Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA). The Ministry explained that Delta State is expected to collaborate with BORBDA to finish the water supply component, ensuring proper water distribution to the benefiting communities. This is the next critical step needed to maximize the dam’s benefits for Delta North.

Nonetheless, the relationship between the federal, state, and local governments can be likened to that of a family. In this scenario, the mother (state government), possessing the necessary resources, should not stand by and allow the child (grassroots) to suffer when the father (federal government) is temporarily incapacitated. What should take priority is the well-being of the people.

Senator Nwoko, understanding the urgency of these projects, presented them to the Delta State Government. He urged the government to fund these projects and seek reimbursement from the federal authorities later, noting how pivotal they are to the state’s overall development. However, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori responded by saying that the state does not have the funds to undertake such projects, as his administration is focused on clearing the N465.4 billion debt left by his predecessor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

But let’s put this in perspective. Between January and June 2024, Delta State received N260.7 billion from FAAC. In June 2024 alone, Delta State was allocated N43.7 billion, almost as much as what all five South-Eastern states (Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo) combined received during the same month (N46.7 billion). Yes, Governor Oborevwori has cleared over N130 billion of debt in his first year of office, but it’s worth asking how Delta State, with such significant allocations, amassed such debt in the first place. Is it a result of unsustainable projects or a misallocation of resources? If the state can clear over N130 billion of debt in one year, surely the funds could also be made available to provide 24-hour electricity and reliable water supply to Delta North within six months, if the administration deems it a priority.

It’s important to note that Senator Ned Nwoko has never, and likely will never, belittle Governor Oborevwori’s efforts. His call for collaboration is just that—a call for partnership, not an attack. In his request for the state government’s involvement in the Okpai and Ogwashi-Uku projects, Senator Nwoko never implied that these were state responsibilities, nor did he misunderstand the ownership structure of the projects. He simply presented a pragmatic solution to accelerate development. Senator Nwoko has thoroughly explored all federal avenues for these projects but found that progress through that route is unlikely to happen in the nearest future. Consequently, he sought the state’s collaboration. And contrary to some assumptions, Senator Nwoko’s suggestion comes with a structured repayment plan—funding these projects through a billing system for water and electricity usage, ensuring that they are not only completed but are also financially sustainable.

Moreover, the Senator did not demand that the state government take on these projects; he merely made a polite request that was swiftly rejected by the Governor without due consideration. This raises questions about the state’s priorities. If providing water and electricity—two absolute necessities—does not rank above flyovers and stadiums, one might argue that the people’s welfare is being sidelined.

To those questioning why Senator Nwoko didn’t pursue these projects during the previous administration, the answer is straightforward: he was not yet a senator, and the full scope of these issues only became apparent once he assumed office. Since then, he has worked diligently, engaging federal ministries, seeking solutions, and presenting realistic alternatives for state collaboration. His efforts are not about assigning blame but about finding solutions. Why would anyone, in good conscience, criticize Senator Ned Nwoko for standing up for his people?

The Okpai Independent Power Plant step-down and the Ogwashi-Uku dam are pivotal to the shared vision of both the Governor and the Senator in advancing infrastructure and improving the quality of life in Delta State. Senator Ned Nwoko, fully recognizing the collaborative nature of governance, made a respectful and well-intentioned request for the state’s involvement in these critical projects. His approach did not challenge the existing ownership or responsibility structure but sought to expedite solutions that would directly benefit the people. The Senator’s request is not an attack on the governor’s leadership, but rather a call for a partnership that puts the people first.

The true value of infrastructure projects is measured by their impact on the fundamental needs of the people. Without addressing these core needs, even the most impressive developments risk becoming burdens rather than assets.

While grand structures like flyovers and stadiums enhance a state’s visual appeal, they should not eclipse essential services. Imagine the transformative effect of providing 24-hour, affordable electricity across Delta State—how it could boost local businesses and drive economic growth. Picture the benefits of a comprehensive irrigation system in Delta North, promoting year-round agricultural productivity and encouraging more residents to pursue farming.

True leadership involves endorsing initiatives that serve the people’s real needs, and such endorsements must be given with integrity and a clear conscience.