Senator Prince Ned Nwoko has reassured the people of Ndokwa Nation in Delta State that tangible progress is being made toward the long-awaited step-down of the Independent Power Project (IPP) located in their area.
Speaking after receiving protesters from the Step Down IPP Ndokwa Nation Movement at the National Assembly in Abuja on Tuesday, Nwoko pledged his unwavering commitment to ensuring that the host communities benefit directly from the multi-billion-naira power installation.
The Senator, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, commended the protesters for conducting themselves peacefully and described their demonstration as a legitimate call for justice and equity.
“Your patience and peaceful approach reflect the resilience of the Ndokwa people,” Nwoko said, assuring that “conversations are ongoing at the highest levels of government to ensure that Ndokwa Nation is no longer left in darkness.”
Nwoko revealed that he has engaged top federal officials, including the Minister of Power, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, and the leadership of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), to fast-track the step-down process. He further disclosed that he has personally discussed the issue with President Bola Tinubu and the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, emphasizing the urgency of delivering electricity to Ndokwa communities that host the IPP facility.
The lawmaker described it as “unacceptable” that Ndokwa, which powers the Aso Rock Presidential Villa and over eight states across Nigeria, continues to live in darkness. He vowed to sustain pressure on relevant agencies until the injustice is corrected.
Nwoko also linked the Ndokwa power issue to the broader question of political representation, reiterating his advocacy for the creation of Anioma State. According to him, “the establishment of Anioma State will give Ndokwa people their rightful voice — a senator of their own and a stronger presence in national decision-making.”
Earlier, the leader of the protest delegation, Dr. Francis Mbabie, who represented the convener, Comrade Henry Franklyn, presented the group’s demands to the lawmakers, urging government action to ensure fairness and infrastructural justice for Ndokwa Nation.
Mbabie lamented that despite Ndokwa’s contribution to national power supply, its communities remain neglected, with no visible federal presence or electricity. “Our people host the IPP that powers Aso Rock and several states, yet we live in darkness. This is not only unjust but a glaring case of neglect,” he stated.
In his closing remarks, Senator Nwoko urged the group and Ndokwa people to remain hopeful, promising that discussions with the relevant authorities are yielding results. “I assure you, progress is being made. The Ndokwa people will soon see the light — literally and figuratively,” he affirmed.
The peaceful demonstration ended on a note of optimism, as participants expressed renewed confidence in Nwoko’s leadership and commitment to delivering lasting change for the Ndokwa Nation.
