Anambra Police advise residents to seek dialogue, not protest, over power failure

Anambra State Police Command has urged residents planning a protest over persistent electricity failure and alleged overestimation of electricity bills to pursue dialogue with relevant authorities rather than take to the streets.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the protest, tagged “Enough Is Enough,” is reportedly being organised by concerned residents who are expressing frustration over poor power supply and what they describe as excessive estimated electricity billing in parts of the state.

SP Ikenga acknowledged that the challenges being faced by residents also affect police officers and their families.

According to him, officers of the command are part of the resident population of Anambra State and share in the difficulties arising from the electricity situation.

“Police officers are also part of the resident population of Anambra State and are equally affected by the challenges faced by members of the public,” the statement noted.

Despite this, the command encouraged aggrieved residents to explore constructive channels of engagement with appropriate authorities responsible for addressing electricity-related concerns.

Ikenga cautioned that while citizens have the right to express their grievances, street protests could potentially disrupt public order and interfere with lawful activities across the state.

He stressed that constructive dialogue with the relevant stakeholders would be a more effective way of resolving the issues surrounding electricity supply and billing.

“The Command encourages concerned residents to pursue constructive engagement with the relevant authorities to address these issues rather than resorting to street protests that may disrupt public order and the free flow of lawful activities,” the statement added.

The police spokesman further reiterated the commitment of the Anambra State Police Command to maintaining peace, law and order across the state.

He assured residents that the command would continue to work towards ensuring public safety while encouraging lawful means of expressing grievances.