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Former Labour Party presidential candidate and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Peter Obi, has criticized President Bola Tinubu for failing to provide Nigerians with stable electricity.
In a statement on his X handle, the former Anambra State governor reminded Tinubu of his campaign pledge to deliver steady electricity within four years of government.
“Thirty-two months after taking office, instead of living up to his powerful words, he now disregards the National Grid, which has been performing abysmally under his watch,” Obi wrote.
He expressed concern over the Tinubu administration’s plan to disconnect the Presidential Villa from the national grid.
“While Nigerians are still grappling with this unfulfilled electoral promise—and without clear communication on the obstacles—we read in the 2025 budget of N10 billion for solar power at Aso Rock, and in the 2026 budget another significant allocation for upgrades and maintenance. Now we are being told, sparsely, that the Presidential Villa plans to disconnect entirely from the national grid to rely on solar power.
It is grossly neglectful and deeply worrisome when the seat of power abandons the national grid. Government institutions should lead efforts to strengthen and expand the grid so that other establishments—and ultimately citizens—can benefit. If those in authority disconnect themselves from the system, who will ensure ordinary Nigerians have reliable power?”
While acknowledging the importance of renewable energy, Obi said the move sends the wrong signal about leadership and accountability.
“Promoting renewable energy, as solar systems do, is commendable and necessary. However, this reflects a deeper concern: governance lacking compassion and commitment to the governed. You cannot tell the people to fast while securing yourself, leaving Nigerians unsecured.
Nigerians do not expect 100% fulfilment of promises, but they do expect 100% effort, accompanied by measurable improvements and clear explanations when gaps exist. Leadership must serve the people, not isolate itself from their daily struggles,” he added.
Last year, the Federal Government commenced a N10 billion solar mini-grid project to power the Aso Rock, highlighting both a shift toward renewable energy and a deepening lack of confidence in Nigeria’s struggling national electricity grid.
