NEWS
Darkness, Extortion Allegations and Rising Anger Residents in Aba Cry Out Against Aba Power Over Prolonged Blackout, Negligence and Alleged Demand for Money Before Reconnection
Tension is mounting around the Rufus Obi area of Aba, Abia State, as frustrated residents have accused Aba Power Limited (APL) of extortion, negligence and unprofessional conduct following weeks of darkness caused by a damaged electricity pole in the area.
Residents lamented that the crisis began about three weeks ago after a vehicle reportedly crashed into an electricity pole located right beside of Rufus Obi, leading to the disconnection of power supply to the community. Since the incident, the area has remained without electricity, leaving residents and business owners in hardship.
According to accounts from residents, the individual involved in the accident allegedly settled officials of Aba Power Limited a few days ago, prompting the company’s workers to visit the scene to install a new one. Residents disclosed that the workers assured the community that electricity would be restored on Wednesday, May 7, 2026.
However, the promise was reportedly not fulfilled as the community remained in darkness long after the assurance was given. Instead of reconnecting the area, residents alleged that some staff members returned demanding money from the people before restoring electricity supply.
The development has sparked outrage within the area, with many accusing the company of exploiting residents who have already suffered weeks of blackout and economic hardship.
Residents further alleged that the workers abandoned the uprooted electricity pole at the scene after installation of the new pole, creating a dangerous situation along the road.
According to them, the negligence allegedly led to another serious accident on Thursday, May 7, 2026, raising fears over public safety and the possibility of further tragedies if urgent action is not taken.
One of the affected residents revealed that attempts were made to contact the field manager of Aba Power Limited over the situation, but the response allegedly suggested ignorance of the incident despite claims that the manager was seen around the area shortly after the latest accident occurred.
The residents are now calling for urgent intervention from the Abia State Government and the management of Aba Power Limited to address the prolonged blackout, investigate the allegations of extortion and ensure that the dangerous situation created by the abandoned pole materials is immediately resolved before another accident occurs.
The incident has continued to generate concern among residents and road users, with many questioning the level of response and accountability expected from utility providers operating in densely populated co
mmunities in Aba.