CUPP Accuses Governor Abiodun of Power Crisis, Calls for Solar Transition

The Ogun State chapter of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has criticized Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration for the persistent electricity shortage in the state. During a press conference on Tuesday in Abeokuta, CUPP called on the governor to explore solar power or independent electricity projects as an alternative solution to the ongoing crisis.

CUPP’s state chairman, Dr. Femi Sholuade, accused the governor of leading the state into darkness, stating that adopting alternative energy sources could boost the state’s economy. Sholuade further claimed that Governor Abiodun’s administration had neglected due process in awarding road contracts, alleging that unqualified contractors from outside the state were given contracts, leaving roads in a dangerous state.

“The current situation is alarming. Many of our roads are in disrepair, and contractors who are awarded these projects have no equipment or expertise to complete the work. Meanwhile, Governor Abiodun’s administration has left Ogun State in a power vacuum while other states are turning to solar and independent power projects,” Sholuade lamented.

The CUPP also expressed concerns about the growing poverty in Ogun State, with Sholuade claiming that 68.1% of the state’s population had been pushed into poverty due to the state’s worsening conditions. He emphasized that the absence of a transparent bidding process for civil and building construction projects was exacerbating the state’s challenges.

In response to these accusations, Governor Abiodun’s Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, dismissed CUPP’s statements as the “rantings of political jobbers” and accused them of fabricating figures to undermine the governor’s efforts. Akinmade referred to the CUPP as a group of “political obscurantists” who were trying to gain relevance by spreading misinformation.

He strongly rejected the allegations, stating that Ogun State has made significant strides in security, road infrastructure, and ease of doing business. He pointed out that over 600 kilometers of roads had been constructed and that the Ogun State government had implemented several reforms aimed at improving business conditions.

Akinmade also addressed the claims about Ogun’s electricity shortage, highlighting the recent signing into law the Ogun Electricity Market (OGEM), which aims to increase the quality and quantity of electricity in the state. He emphasized that the project would create a deregulated market, attract private sector investment, and ensure a more reliable energy supply for Ogun residents.

“The government’s work speaks for itself. We have introduced significant policies to drive Ogun’s growth. CUPP’s claims are simply baseless and designed to mislead the public,” Akinmade stated, challenging the CUPP to provide evidence to back its claims.

As tensions between the state government and CUPP continue, the issue of electricity supply and infrastructure remains a key point of contention in Ogun State.