“‘Na Darkness We Commission?’ — Bayelsans React as Tinubu Inaugurates Idle Power Project”
By Passman Akpos
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State — Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Friday inaugurated a series of landmark infrastructure projects in Bayelsa State, praising Governor Douye Diri for what he described as “purposeful leadership.”
During the high-profile visit, Tinubucommissioned four major projects, including the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma Bridge, a dual carriageway linking New Yenagoa City to the airport road, the Sagbama-Ekeremor road, and a 60-megawatt gas turbine power project. The President noted that the projects would enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and bring hope to local communities.
“Governor Diri, you’ve done a great job. These are transformative projects—the bridge linking communities, the dual carriageways creating opportunities, jobs, and hope. You have demonstrated very purposeful leadership,” Tinubu said, adding that he felt “at home in Bayelsa.”
In his response, Governor Diri credited the federal government’s reforms—particularly in the power sector—for enabling the state to deliver on its promise of independent electricity generation. He described the gas turbine project as a milestone achievement and “a cause for thanksgiving and rejoicing.”
The event drew several top dignitaries, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, among others.
However, despite the fanfare, the commissioning of the 60MW gas turbine has sparked widespread reactions among residents and observers, many of whom expressed disappointment over the apparent lack of immediate electricity supply following the inauguration.
On social media and within local communities, skepticism quickly replaced initial excitement. Some residents questioned why the project was commissioned without visible power output, suggesting it may not have undergone adequate testing before unveiling.
“It’s disappointing. A project like this should have been test-run properly before commissioning,” one resident remarked, reflecting a growing sentiment that the rollout may have been rushed.
Others voiced frustration over what they described as a recurring pattern of inaugurating incomplete projects, raising concerns about governance priorities and the perceived gap between political promises and real-life impact.
While some citizens applauded the ambition behind the turbine project and broader infrastructure drive, many insisted that tangible results—especially steady electricity—remain the true measure of success.
As anticipation builds, residents say they are watching closely, hoping the newly commissioned power facility will begin delivering electricity in the coming days.
For now, the visit has left Bayelsa at the center of a national conversation—one that highlights both progress and the pressing demand for accountability in public projects.
