The new Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has alerted that there are cartels and cabals working against the success of the power sector in the country.
Chief Adelabu raised the alarm in Ibadan weekend while speaking at a reception party organised in his honour by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes at Oke-Aremo, new palace of Olubadan.
The minister stated that there is overbearing influence of cartels and cabals working against the success of the nation’s power sector and promised that it will be handled professionally.
Describing cartels and cabals in the power sector as a major factor militating against the sector’s optimal performance, Chief Adelabu said of all the sectors of the nation’s economy, the power sector is the most criticised because of its relevance to the economic growth and it’s non-functioning at optimal level.
“There is no doubt that there are cartels and cabals that are working against the success of the sector, but this will be handled professionally. I will collaborate with relevant stakeholders including the CCII at ensuring my successful stay as Minister of Power,” he said.
Chief Adelabu added: “The challenges facing the power sector are enormous. The aged ineffectiveness of the sector in generation, transformation and distribution of power always attract criticism from the end users.
“The sector plays a pivotal role in the economic growth hence the reason it cannot afford to continue failing the public. The manufacturing sector, both the Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneur including the households, need power for economic survival.
“My appointment must be seen as a two- edged sword with faces of failure and success. If the power sector records remarkable success or the other way round, it will not be hidden. That is why I need the support of all and sundry to succeed in this enormous task. We should put aside political differences and work together as an indivisible entity.” (Blueprint)
