In a significant legislative development, the Ogun State House of Assembly on Tuesday advanced a bill aimed at transforming the electricity landscape within the state. The bill, titled “H.B.No.017/OG/2024 – Ogun State Power Sector Law,” successfully passed its second reading, a critical step in the legislative process. This bill seeks to overhaul the state’s electricity generation, transmission, and distribution systems, with the broader goal of establishing a more efficient and reliable electricity market, safeguarding consumer rights, and fostering a competitive power sector.
The legislative session, held at the Assembly Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, was presided over by Speaker Oludaisi Elemide. The bill’s progression was initiated through a motion moved by Hon. Babatunde Tella and seconded by Hon. Damilare Bello. The motion received robust support from the entire house, underscored by a unanimous voice vote—a clear indicator of the collective agreement on the importance of this bill.
Opening the debate, Hon. Babatunde Tella emphasized the transformative potential of the bill. He pointed out that upon its passage by the Assembly and subsequent assent by Governor Dapo Abiodun, the bill would significantly improve the state’s electricity infrastructure. Tella highlighted the bill’s promise to enhance the quality of life for Ogun State residents, particularly those in rural areas who have historically suffered from inadequate power supply. By improving electricity access, the bill aims to integrate rural areas more fully into the state’s economic and social fabric, thereby ensuring that all communities can enjoy the amenities that reliable electricity provides.
Adding their voices to the debate, several other lawmakers, including Majority Leader Yusuf Sheriff, Honourable Adebisi Oyedele, Honourable Yusuf Amosun, and Minority Leader Lukman Adeleye, commended both the Federal and State governments. They particularly praised the decision to move the issue of electricity from the exclusive legislative list to the concurrent list. This shift, facilitated by the National Assembly, now empowers states to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity within their jurisdictions. According to the lawmakers, this legislative change is a game-changer that opens up opportunities for states like Ogun to take charge of their power needs and tailor solutions that best suit their local circumstances.
The legislators also underscored the potential economic benefits of the bill. They argued that a reliable power supply would create a conducive environment for business, attracting both large-scale industries and smaller enterprises to invest and thrive in Ogun State. The prospect of consistent electricity supply is particularly appealing to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which are often hamstrung by unreliable power. By alleviating one of the biggest hurdles these businesses face, the state can foster a more dynamic and robust economy.
Furthermore, the lawmakers noted that improved electricity infrastructure could address some of the state’s social challenges, particularly rural-urban migration. By ensuring that rural areas have access to reliable electricity, the state can make these regions more attractive for living and working, thereby reducing the pressure on urban centers and promoting balanced development across Ogun State.
In his remarks, Speaker Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide highlighted the broader implications of the bill. He noted that the proposed law would not only enhance electricity generation, transmission, and distribution but also introduce a more competitive electricity market. By doing so, the state would break the monopoly traditionally held by a few electricity providers, leading to better services and fairer prices for consumers. Elemide also stressed the importance of protecting consumer rights, a key component of the bill, which seeks to ensure that residents are treated fairly and transparently by electricity providers.
Additionally, the Speaker pointed out that the bill aims to create synergy among stakeholders in the power sector. By fostering collaboration between the government, private sector players, and consumer groups, the bill hopes to generate revenue in a way that benefits all parties without resorting to unnecessary tariff increases. Such a balanced approach is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring the long-term success of the state’s electricity reforms.
To further deliberate on the bill and gather input from relevant stakeholders, the Speaker announced a stakeholders’ forum scheduled for Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 10:00 am. This forum will provide an opportunity for various interest groups, including industry experts, consumer advocates, and community leaders, to share their views and contribute to the shaping of the final legislation.
In a related development, the Ogun State House of Assembly has invited the Chairman and members of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) to appear before the lawmakers on September 3, 2024. This invitation comes in response to concerns raised by Minority Leader Lukman Adeleye regarding the payment of fees by political parties in preparation for the upcoming local government elections. The lawmakers seek to gain a clearer understanding of OGSIEC’s activities and ensure that the electoral process remains fair and transparent for all participants.
These developments highlight the Ogun State House of Assembly’s proactive approach to governance, as they seek to address both the state’s immediate needs and long-term strategic goals. By advancing the Power Sector Bill and scrutinizing the operations of the electoral commission, the Assembly is demonstrating its commitment to improving the lives of its citizens and ensuring that Ogun State remains a beacon of progress and development.
