Repeated power outage embarrasses Gov Otu, African dignitaries at investment forum in Calabar

Governor Bassey Otu and his deputy, Dr Peter Odey, faced embarrassment at the sixth edition of the African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AsFNET) meeting in Calabar, Cross River State, due to repeated power outages. The blackouts, which transpired over 20 times during the three-day event, repeatedly disrupted proceedings attended by government officials from various African countries, Nigerian state representatives, and private sector operators.

A particularly awkward moment occurred when Governor Otu, while presenting the event's communique, was interrupted by another power outage, forcing him to apologize to the attendees. Delegations from Comoros, Kenya, Tanzania, The Gambia, and South Africa, along with representatives from several Nigerian states, were present. The meeting aimed to foster cooperation among sub-national governments and attract investments, but the recurrent electricity issues highlighted the state's ongoing power challenges.

Some state officials attributed the embarrassment to the organizers, claiming substantial funds were allocated for the successful hosting of the event. However, private sector representatives and MAN officials stated that their organizations had also contributed significantly. This incident has prompted calls for an investigation into the repeated power failures, with some participants demanding accountability for the lapses.

The repeated power outage left an unfortunate impression on visiting dignitaries and business operators, undermining Cross River's efforts to project itself as an attractive destination for investors.