Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu, alleging a failure to meet campaign promises on improving national electricity supply. In a statement issued via his verified X account, Obi referenced a specific pre-election pledge by Tinubu, who had urged Nigerians not to vote for him for a second term if steady power was not delivered.
Obi stated that thirty-two months into the administration, the national grid continues to perform poorly. He argued that while the public does not expect perfection, they demand sustained effort and measurable progress, coupled with transparency regarding challenges. The former governor of Anambra State emphasized that leadership must remain connected to citizens’ daily realities, not isolated from them.
The politician, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), expressed deep concern over reports that the seat of government is planning to disconnect the Presidential Villa (Aso Rock) from the national grid. He noted that the 2025 federal budget includes approximately 10 billion naira for solar power at Aso Rock, with further allocations for 2026 maintenance. Obi contrasted this with the widespread power instability faced by ordinary Nigerians and businesses.
While acknowledging the importance of renewable energy initiatives, Obi framed the situation as a symptom of broader governance failure. He suggested that prioritizing secure power for government institutions while the broader grid remains unreliable demonstrates a lack of compassion and commitment. His core question was: if those in authority disconnect themselves from the national system, who will ensure reliable power for the average citizen?
This criticism taps into persistent public frustration over Nigeria’s chronic power supply deficits, a longstanding economic and developmental challenge. Obi’s statement highlights the political sensitivity of electricity provision and frames the issue as a test of governmental accountability and empathy. The allegations intensify scrutiny on the administration’s energy policies and its communication regarding the unmet promise of stable power.
