Gov. Alex Otti Pushes for Fairness in Finalizing Abia’s Acquisition of 60% Stake in EEDC

In a significant move toward transforming power supply across Abia, Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has called for fairness and open-mindedness among all stakeholders involved in the ongoing negotiations for the acquisition of a majority stake in the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC).

Governor Otti made this appeal during a high-level meeting with top executives of Interstate Electrics Limited, led by its Chairman, Sir Emeka Offor, held at Government House, Umuahia.

The Abia State Government, under Otti’s leadership, has submitted its first and second official bids to acquire 60% of Interstate Electrics’ shareholding in EEDC’s Umuahia zone. The targeted area includes eight Local Government Areas in Abia North and parts of Abia Central, currently underserved or outside Geometric Power’s network.

The move is part of Governor Otti’s intentional and strategic plan to enhance electricity distribution in Abia State, particularly to energize manufacturing and support economic growth.

Governor Otti disclosed that negotiations with Interstate Electrics, the majority shareholder in EEDC, are already at an advanced stage. He emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness to ensure a timely and beneficial conclusion for all parties
“Let all parties approach this transaction with an open mind. We must be fair, honest, and efficient in finalizing this acquisition because the people of Abia deserve better power supply,” Otti said.

In response, Sir Emeka Offor praised Governor Otti’s leadership and vision, citing visible infrastructural projects across the state. He expressed Interstate’s willingness to cooperate while also ensuring a thorough review of the acquisition terms.

Chief Okey Nwosu, Managing Director of Interstate Electrics, presented the company’s response to Abia State’s bid, outlining areas that require mutual agreement to proceed with the acquisition.

Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, highlighted Abia State’s broader vision for power reforms — focusing on infrastructure investment that ensures reliable and affordable electricity, particularly for industrial hubs and local communities.

“This acquisition aligns with our drive to make Abia an industrial and manufacturing powerhouse. Reliable electricity is at the heart of that mission,” he said.

Also present during the meeting were:

• Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN – Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice
• Mr. Uwaoma Ukandu – Commissioner for Finance
• Mr. Charles Egonye – Technical Assistant to the Governor
• Mr. Osinachi Nwaka – Director-General, Ministry of Finance Incorporated
• Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu – Principal Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer

Governor Otti concluded by reiterating his administration’s resolve to ensure that electricity stops being a bottleneck to development in Abia.