By: Erewunmi Peace

Business owners at Orisumbare Shopping Complex, Osun State’s largest and oldest shopping hub, are lamenting severe financial losses following a prolonged power outage that has persisted for nearly two months.

The complex, home to over 270 shops and offices, has been plunged into darkness, forcing many businesses to close down, reduce operations, or rely on expensive diesel generators.

Business Activities Paralyzed

Affected traders include:

Frozen food vendors, who report total spoilage of goods

Phone technicians, who can’t charge or repair devices

Tailors and hairdressers, who have lost clients due to power dependence

Printing and design studios, unable to run equipment

“This power outage has destroyed our businesses. I’ve lost over ₦700,000 worth of frozen stock,” said one distressed trader.

Economic Toll Rising

Collectively, traders estimate they’ve lost over ₦500 million in potential income and stock. With no end in sight, many fear the situation could push them out of business completely.

Power Provider & Government Response

The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has reportedly replaced some faulty transformers and meters. However, traders say the fixes have not restored consistent power supply.

The Osun State Government is now stepping in to collaborate with IBEDC and explore long-term solutions to restore electricity and protect small businesses.

Key Facts Details

Outage Location Orisumbare Shopping Complex, Osogbo
Duration Nearly 2 months
Affected Businesses Over 270 shops (frozen food, tailoring, tech)
Estimated Losses ₦500 million+
Gov’t & IBEDC Response In progress

Call for Action

Traders are calling for urgent intervention, not just to restore power, but to improve infrastructure, introduce backup solutions, and stabilize their businesses.

“If this continues, Osogbo’s economy will suffer. The government must act fast,” one business owner warned.