Reps Threaten To Demolish Illegal Structures On NDPHC Power Transmission Routes
By Sunday Etuka
The House of Representatives Committee on Public Assets has threatened to remove illegal structures erected on Federal Government rights of way for power transmission projects being executed by Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC).
The committee decried encroachment and vandalism of power projects, warning that development was undermining investments in the power sector.
Chairman of committee, Hon Kuye Ademorin, stated this after an inspection visits to 132kV New Haven, Ninth Mile, Nsukka Double Circuit Transmission Line in Enugu State and Egbu 330/132/33kV substation in Owerri, Imo State.
Other lawmakers on inspection tour were Hon Mark Obetta, Hon Lanre Okunlola, Hon Sani Rigo and Hon Canice Moore Nwachukwu.
The committee observed that churches, hotels, private residences and state government buildings had been erected along designated transmission routes, threatening timely completion of projects.
NDPHC disclosed that Owerri substation which is about 85 per cent complete would add about 250 megawatts to electricity supply in Imo State and significantly improve supply to Orlu area.
The project first awarded in 2006 has received renewed attention under leadership of NDPHC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Engr Jennifer Adighije.
Ademorin expressed concern over proliferation of buildings along designated transmission routes, questioning how state authorities could approve such developments despite existing Federal Government rights of way.
He said encroachment had delayed projects designed to improve electricity supply and stimulate industrial development, while vandalism had further undermined public investments.
He observed the magnitude of investment by the Federal Government in building a sustainable power system for the country, particularly in states to help them develop their industrial base through adequate power supply, but expressed disappointment that some people are not buying into the vision of a greater country.
The lawmaker called for stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities to protect public assets and ensure timely project delivery.
He also urged the government to prioritise completion of ongoing projects and ensure contractors received timely payments. He stressed the need for prompt compensation to landowners to prevent disputes and litigation over acquired land.
Ademorin commended NDPHC for quality of work at Owerri substation, expressing optimism that its expected completion around March 2027 would transform industrial activities across South East.
He appealed to governors of Enugu and Imo states to work with NDPHC to address encroachment, protect federal assets and accelerate project delivery.
Warning those occupying government land illegally, he said it is not going to be business as usual and the committee will take drastic appropriate steps to ensure structures are removed.
He advised Nigerians to investigate land ownership and status before purchasing property to avoid acquiring plots within government approved rights of way.
According to him, completing projects would support industrialisation, create jobs, improve security and promote peace.
