Expert Urges Edo Governor to Establish Electricity Regulator

Mr. Odion Omonfoman, an energy expert and lead consultant for the Nigerian Governor's Forum, has called on Governor Mondai Okphebholo to immediately establish an electricity regulatory commission in Edo State. This move aims to tackle the monopoly held by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), which has been unable to provide reliable power supply to the state.

Omonfoman argued that the legal foundation for the commission already exists under the Edo State Electricity Law of 2025, which grants the commission the authority to license and regulate various aspects of the electricity value chain, including generation, transmission, and distribution. He noted that the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has already issued an order for regulatory oversight in the state.

Omonfoman emphasized the need to break the electricity monopoly in Edo State, citing the lack of choice for electricity service providers and the adverse effects on local businesses and citizens. He urged the governor to take immediate action to address these issues.