“Delta’s Real Crisis Exposed: 24-Hour Electricity Needed, Not More Flyovers—Otiti Declares”

Abuja — A heated debate has emerged over Delta State’s development priorities as the National President of the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG), Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to urgently focus on delivering 24-hour uninterrupted electricity rather than concentrating on flyover bridge projects.
Otiti argued that no meaningful industrial growth can take place without stable power supply, stressing that electricity remains the backbone of economic development, job creation, and investment attraction.
According to him, Delta State’s industrial ambitions will remain a dream unless the power challenge is decisively addressed.
“We cannot talk about industrialization without electricity. The first thing Delta State needs is 24-hour uninterrupted power supply. Once we achieve stable electricity, the state will naturally become attractive to investors and manufacturers,” he said.
The media executive urged the state government to temporarily shift attention and resources away from physical infrastructure projects such as flyovers and instead prioritize solving the electricity crisis.
He maintained that reliable power supply would stimulate businesses, boost entrepreneurship, and reduce dependence on government jobs and political appointments.
“If Delta State has 24-hour electricity, many people will no longer be seeking appointments. They will be engaged in productive ventures and private businesses,” Otiti stated.
He also expressed concern over what he described as the increasing dominance of commercial tricycle (Keke) operations and Point-of-Sale (POS) businesses across the state, noting that while they provide income, they do not represent true industrial development.
“Delta State is gradually becoming a hub for Keke transportation and POS industry. While these ventures support families, they cannot replace the impact of large-scale industrialization and manufacturing,” he added.
Otiti further noted that Delta State has abundant land and resources capable of supporting major industries, but warned that investors would continue to avoid the state if electricity challenges persist.
He said stable power would improve productivity, strengthen the ease of doing business, and position Delta as a major investment destination in Nigeria.
The GOMEP-NG president therefore urged the Oborevwori administration to develop a comprehensive and sustainable power strategy capable of delivering round-the-clock electricity supply across the state.
“Delta has the land, the human resources, and the strategic location required for industrial growth. What is missing is reliable electricity. Once power becomes stable, industries will emerge, jobs will be created, and the economy will transform,” he said.