- Safiu Kehinde
The sacked Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha, has denied alleged ownership of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC).
This is coming under the heels of the ongoing clash between the EEDC and the Governor Hope Uzodinma- led administration in Imo state.
NPO Reported that the Imo government had accused the EEDC of alleged plot to sabotage ongoing power project in the state by carrying out major power outage across the state.
Ihedioha was dragged into the case as the ex-governor, who served from 2019 to 2020 before being sacked by Supreme Court order to pave way for Uzodinma, was alleged to have owned the Enugu DisCo and had intended to frustrate the effort of the Imo state government.
Reacting to the allegation in a statement issued on Monday, the former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives labelled the allegations as baseless and unfounded.
He clarified that he never owns the EEDC in any form, stressing that the claims were false.
“My attention has been drawn to baseless and completely unfounded allegations suggesting that I, as the purported “owner” of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company EEDC, am sabotaging the ongoing Imo State Power Project.
“Let me state firmly and unequivocally that these claims are false. I do not own EEDC in any form, whether whole or part, beneficial or nominal.
“I am not on its board, I hold no shares, and do not participate in or influence its corporate decisions in any way. Those peddling these narratives are relying on fiction, not fact.” He said.
While commending Uzodinma over the ongoing power initiatives by his administration, Ihedioha held that he had also championed same initiative with the establishment of the Imo State Power and Rural Electrification Agency (IPOREA) during his brief stint in office.
He also recalled reviving the renowned Ahiajoku Lecture Series which the Uzodinma’s administration also continued.
“Notably, I acknowledge and commend the current Imo State Government for its ongoing power initiatives. Any genuine effort to expand energy access, strengthen infrastructure and improve the wellbeing of our people deserves encouragement.
“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.
“It was established to provide stability, coordination, and long-term structure for power solutions in Imo. I remain proud of that foundation, and I welcome any progressive steps taken today that align with the goal of a more prosperous and energy secure Imo.
“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 program, reinforcing a pedigree that enriches Imo’s traditional and academic heritage.” He said.
Ihedioha pledged his support for the any of the government’s initiative that promotes progress in the state.
“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.” He added.