The Isoko Needs Light Campaign, popularly known as “No Light, No Campaign”, has become one of the most powerful grassroots movements in Delta State in 2026. It highlights the long-standing electricity crisis in Isoko North and South Local Government Areas.
Background of the Crisis
For over 10 to 14 years, many Isoko communities have endured near-total blackout. Residents in towns like Ozoro, Oleh, Irri, Emede, Olomoro, Emevor, Ellu, Ofagbe, Iyede, and others report receiving less than a few hours of power weekly — or none at all in some places.
Despite Isoko’s status as a major oil-producing region that contributes significantly to Nigeria’s revenue, the area suffers severe marginalisation in infrastructure. Businesses collapse under the high cost of diesel and generators, education suffers (especially at universities in Ozoro and Oleh), and daily life becomes a struggle.
A long-delayed project — the NDDC 132/33 kV Ozoro Substation and the Ughelli–Ozoro Transmission Station — has remained incomplete for over 14 years, worsening the situation.
How the Campaign Started
The movement gained massive momentum in April 2026 when Isoko youths took to the streets with the slogan: “No Light, No Campaign! Isoko Needs Light!”
They blocked political activities and warned politicians not to campaign in the area ahead of the 2027 elections without addressing power supply. In May 2026, over 100 women (mainly market traders and business owners) joined the protest in Oleh, the headquarters of Isoko South LGA. They marched with placards, chanting the same powerful message.
Key Demands:
- Immediate completion of the Ozoro substation and Ughelli–Ozoro transmission project.
- Stable 24-hour electricity supply.
- Accountability from Delta State Government, BEDC, NERC, NDDC, and oil companies operating in the area.
- Recognition of Isoko’s contribution to the nation’s oil wealth.
Voices from the People
The Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) worldwide declared full support:
“A nation cannot campaign for votes in darkness while its citizens live in darkness — No Light, No Campaign.”
Women protesters lamented:
“We can no longer afford fuel and diesel… Our businesses have crumbled.”
The campaign has spread beyond Isoko, with solidarity messages from Lagos (Berger flyover) and strong online presence.
Government Response So Far
Delta State Government has engaged BEDC on even power distribution. However, residents say concrete action on the abandoned projects is still lacking. The campaign continues to pressure leaders at state and federal levels.
Significance for Isoko Nation
The Isoko Needs Light Campaign is more than a protest — it is a demand for justice, development, and basic rights. It unites women, youths, and communities across party lines under one message: Development must match our contributions.
As 2027 approaches, the campaign sends a clear signal: Isoko people are tired of living in darkness. They want Light Before Campaign.
Isoko Needs Light! No Light, No Campaign!
www.isoko.com.ng will continue to monitor and report updates on this campaign. Share your views, experiences, or photos from the protests in the comments. Let’s keep the light on this issue until power is restored.
#IsokoNeedsLight #NoLightNoCampaign #LightUpIsoko 🇳🇬⚡
Sources: Leadership NG, OsunDefender, ThisDay, Isoko.com.ng archives, and eyewitness accounts.