Madurodojo: The Bane Of Nigeria Power Supply By Olatunbosun David

   File Photo Of Mr. Olatunbosun 

One of the numerous crops that were popular among the Yoruba speaking people of Nigeria is a particular specie of yam called 'Madurodojo' meaning 'do not wait for the rain.'  This specie of yam is known for its ability to sprout even before the advent of rain or at the dry seasons. At a distance, one can easily identify it among other species of yam in the farm. While every other yam remains in the heap, waiting for the rain, Madurodojo is already flourishing and coiling round its pegs. Another thing that is of interest about this yam, is its natural sweetness that makes one want more of it that at most times, you see people licking their fingers while eating it, even with palm oil and salt. 

However, current observations have shown that Madurodojo is gradually going to extinction. The yam is no longer seen in the farm as it used to be before. And so the splendour it gives to yam plantations are no longer there. Unfortunately, as this specie of yam with distinct attributes is fading to oblivion, so as another thing taking its place and popularity. The epileptic power supply in Nigeria and its worrisome attributes is now the new 'Madurodojo.' It beats my imagination that at our level, power is still been taken when it is raining or wants to rain. For instance, there are times, rain may likely fall, but didn’t; yet, there will be a blackout for some days or weeks. It seems the rain and our power supply are now arch enemies just like the day and night, that don't sight each other!

Of recent, the Minister for Power disclosed that Nigerians now enjoy 18 to 24 hours power supply. I wonder the Nigerians he was referring to? Though, there have been testimonies from few communities that enjoy power supply at maximum of 8 to 15 hours per day. And this is vice versa to other communities that enjoyed power supply between 10 to 15 hours per day in the past that are now struggling to have 1 even up to 4 hours per day.  So, tell me the Nigerians that are enjoying the uninterrupted power supply as claimed by the minister? 

I am not condemning the numerous efforts of the government in solving the problem of power sector. It is just that, it is a blatant fallacy and lie for the minister to say that 'Nigerians' instead of 'few Nigerians' enjoy uninterrupted power supply. Nigerians who are wearing the shoes should be in the better position to appraise or ascertain the efforts of the ministry of power as the power supply many enjoy are not commensurate with the exuberant charges they pay for. There are sometimes one would stay for two weeks or more without power supply. If African countries such as Togo, Niger, Benin Republic, etc.  Nigeria supply electricity with, can enjoy steady power; Nigerian government can do better than that for her citizens. 

It is worthy of note that the government must work hard to settle the lingering power supply problem in the country. The activities of the distribution companies should be closely monitored, especially in the aspect of extortionate billings and delays in the distribution of prepaid  metres to their customers. And also be cautioned to desist from charging customers to fix their damaged equipment. 

Olatubosun David is a Nigeria writer and poet. He is a member of PEN, Nigeria Centre. A graduate of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State (2013), currently works in Achievers University, Owo. Ondo State, Nigeria. He is on Twitter @davidolatubosun and Instagram @olatubosundavid