In a concerted effort to combat the persistent vandalization of electricity transmission lines along the Rivers and Bayelsa corridor, the governments of Rivers State and Bayelsa State have established a collaborative initiative aimed at addressing this pressing issue.

During a joint meeting held at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, expressed enthusiasm regarding the discussions. She emphasized the importance of confronting problems directly rather than ignoring them, asserting that strategic solutions would be proposed to mitigate vandalism in the area.

“The recent call from the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa highlighted the need for joint action, and upon informing Governor Fubara about this, he readily approved the meeting,” Prof. Odu remarked, recognizing the collaboration as a significant initiative spearheaded by the Bayelsa State Deputy Governor.

Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, outlined the rationale for the meeting, citing the alarming frequency of vandalism incidents affecting the transmission lines between the two states, particularly in Ahoada East and West Local Government Areas. He reported that the transmission infrastructure has been targeted multiple times over the past four months, noting that such activities prompted the establishment of an Anti-Vandalism Taskforce by Governor Doye Diri to counteract these attacks.

Sen. Ewhrudjakpo also acknowledged Rivers State’s support, thanking Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara for his commitment to addressing the vandalism and recognizing the historical ties between the two states, with Rivers serving as a supportive elder brother to Bayelsa.

Following the closed-door discussions, Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, shared that the meeting fostered extensive dialogue regarding strategies to combat vandalism. A key initiative proposed is the creation of a joint vigilante team made up of community members residing near the transmission towers, highlighting the vital role of community involvement in crafting sustainable solutions to the challenges faced.

Rivers State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Charles Beke, reaffirmed his state’s commitment to implementing the resolutions reached during the meeting, signaling a united front in the fight against these disruptive acts.

©CDA News