From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
Abia State Government said talks have reached an advanced stage for it to acquire Umuahia Ringed Fence from the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC).
Governor Alex Otti disclosed this in Aba during a civic reception organised in his honour by the Abiriba community, held at the Enyimba International Stadium.
According to him, “We are working very hard to ensure that the entire Ohafia Local Government Area and Abia North as a whole begin to have power, not just power, but constant power.
“We are buying out Abia North and Umuahia ringed-fence from EEDC so that it will be within our control. We have made the offer already and we are in discussions. We will soon conclude it and take it over completely.”
Otti also announced that his administration has made offers to Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to buy back the moribund Star Paper Mill, Aba, and revive the firm.
“I grew up in Aba here. I was born here. I knew how important Star Paper Mill was, not just to Aba, not just to Abia State, not just to the East of the Niger, but to Nigeria. As we speak, we know that Star Paper Mill has been taken over by AMCON.
“Let me announce that the state government entered into a discussion with AMCON and as we speak, we have made an offer to AMCON to buy back Star Paper Mill. So, one thing you can take to the bank is that under our watch, Star Paper Mill will be back.