Akwa Ibom Government Denies Ibom Power Sale Rumors

The Akwa Ibom State Government, led by Governor Umo Eno, has officially denied allegations published by a Uyo-based tabloid, which suggested that the administration planned to sell the state-owned Ibom Power Company. Aniekan Umanah, the state's Commissioner for Information, described the report as entirely false and malicious, urging the public to disregard it.

The government clarified that there are no intentions to sell the power plant, asserting that such claims are unfounded and stem from mischief-makers aiming to mislead the public. Instead, the administration is focused on repairing a $9 million loan obtained from Afreximbank to sustain operations at the company, with a structured repayment plan of $560,000 due by March 15, 2025.

The government acknowledged ongoing power outages, attributing them to issues beyond its control, but is engaging relevant institutions to resolve these problems. Additionally, the government is initiating a privatization program to attract credible private investment while retaining full ownership of the electric assets.