Former Labour Party presidential flag bearer Peter Obi has criticised President Bola Tinubu over the state of Nigeria’s electricity supply, accusing the administration of failing to improve the national grid more than two and a half years after taking office.
In a statement posted on his 𝕏 account on Monday, Obi recalled Tinubu’s campaign pledge that Nigerians should not re-elect him if he could not guarantee stable electricity within four years.
According to Obi, 32 months into the administration, the power sector has yet to show the promised transformation.
He argued that instead of revitalising the grid, the government appears to be distancing itself from a system that continues to struggle under persistent outages and instability.
Obi said many Nigerians were inspired by assurances of reliable power, hoping it would bring relief to households, boost small businesses, and stimulate national growth.
However, he noted that those expectations remain largely unmet, with little public explanation about the challenges facing the sector.
The former Anambra State governor also expressed concern over reports that the Federal Government plans to power the Presidential Villa primarily with solar energy.
Referencing budgetary allocations — including ₦10 billion earmarked for solar installations at Aso Rock in the 2025 budget and additional funds proposed for upgrades in 2026 — Obi described the move as troubling.
He argued that while renewable energy adoption is forward-looking and necessary, it should not signal abandonment of the national grid.
According to him, the seat of power should be setting the example by strengthening public infrastructure rather than disconnecting from it.
Obi questioned how ordinary Nigerians could gain access to dependable electricity if top government institutions opt out of the system.
He warned that such actions may deepen public frustration and widen the gap between leadership and citizens.
While acknowledging the importance of investing in clean energy solutions, Obi maintained that leadership must demonstrate empathy and accountability.
He stressed that citizens may not expect every promise to be perfectly fulfilled, but they do expect genuine effort, visible progress, and transparent communication when challenges arise.
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He concluded by urging those in authority to prioritise inclusive governance, noting that leadership should reflect the daily realities of the people it serves rather than distance itself from them.