The Ukwuani Foundation Union (UFU) has declared its full support for a peaceful protest scheduled for June 16, 2025, to demand electricity for the Ndokwa/Ukwuani communities in Delta State.
For the past 16 years, residents of these communities have endured a persistent power outage, despite being the hosts of the Independent Power Plant (IPP) in Okpai, located in Ndokwa East Local Government Area.
The long-standing blackout has sparked widespread frustration, particularly among the youth, who are now calling for the IPP to be stepped down in the region to stabilize local electricity supply.
In a statement titled, “Let There Be Light in Our Land”, jointly signed by UFU President, Chuks Onyemulu and General Secretary, Cornel Eke, the union commended stakeholders who have been working both publicly and behind the scenes to resolve the power crisis.
While emphasizing that peaceful protest is a legitimate and democratic way to express grievances and advocate for basic human rights, UFU urged all participants to remain calm and focused, highlighting the importance of unity and effective communication in pushing for progress.
The statement reads in part: “The leadership and members of the Ukwuani Foundation Union have been following the ongoing developments concerning the lack of electricity in our land. We recognize and deeply appreciate the tireless efforts of individuals and groups who have worked over the years and continue to work to bring electricity to our communities.
“It is unacceptable that our people, despite being the hosts of a major power source, continue to live in darkness. The IPP step-down project should have been completed long ago. We stand in full solidarity with the demand for this critical infrastructure to be realized without further delay.
“We acknowledge the diversity of opinions surrounding the planned peaceful protest. However, we firmly believe that such action is both appropriate and necessary, given the longstanding deprivation faced by our communities. Protests remain a legitimate form of civic engagement, especially in the face of systemic neglect.
“It is unjust for a community to host the very source of electricity that powers other regions, yet be denied access to that same power. The people of Ndokwa/Ukwuani deserve better.
“We call on all protest organizers and participants to maintain a peaceful and respectful atmosphere throughout the demonstration. Let us remain united, avoid name-calling or internal conflicts, and remember that we are one people before, during, and after the protest.
“We see a light at the end of the tunnel, and with continued unity and determination, we believe that a new dawn of development and empowerment is within reach for our communities.”
The Ukwuani Foundation Union, however, reaffirmed its commitment to the progress and well-being of the Ndokwa/Ukwuani people and remained hopeful that the government and relevant authorities will respond with urgency and fairness to the call for electricity.
