Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu of failing to fulfill his promise of providing steady electricity to Nigerians. In a statement, Atiku said Tinubu's administration has not built new generation infrastructure to increase Nigeria's power capacity, despite floating a multitrillion naira bond programme to settle legacy debts owed to generation companies. Atiku criticized the APC Presidential Campaign Council for trying to obscure Tinubu's unfulfilled electricity promise with paperwork and projects.
Atiku stated that Nigerians are still struggling with unreliable electricity, with families and businesses spending scarce resources on alternative power. He noted that consumers are placed in different bands and charged varying rates, but still face frequent power outages. Atiku also pointed out that Nigerians are billed for electricity they cannot rely on, with no clear answer on what will happen to their bills when the subsidy ends in 2027.
Atiku promised to work with state governments and regulators to abolish the present band system and replace it with a fair, transparent, and affordable framework that protects households and holds power companies accountable for the electricity they deliver. He emphasized that steady power that Nigerians can afford will be a national priority if he is elected. Atiku also criticized Tinubu's administration for not providing a clear answer on the impact of the subsidy end on Nigerians' bills.
President Tinubu had made a commitment in 2022 to provide constant electricity for four years, saying that if he fails to do so, Nigerians should not vote for him again. Atiku said Nigerians have lived through those four years and are now waiting for Tinubu to answer for his promise. Atiku's statement was issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council.
Atiku also criticized the government for imposing VAT on electricity and a 5 per cent surcharge on certain fossil fuels, including petrol and diesel. He noted that Nigerians already struggle to meet the cost of energy and deserve to know why another potential charge has been placed before them. Atiku emphasized that Nigerians need reliable electricity they can afford, and a government that keeps its word.
The power crisis in Nigeria has had significant impacts on households and businesses, with many spending large sums on alternative power. Atiku's promise to address the crisis has resonated with many Nigerians who are eager for change. Atiku's statement has also sparked a renewed debate on the need for a comprehensive solution to Nigeria's power crisis.
Atiku's criticism of Tinubu's electricity record has highlighted the need for a thorough examination of the government's power policies. The issue is likely to be a major talking point in the upcoming elections, with many Nigerians eager to hold their leaders accountable for their promises. Atiku's promise to prioritize steady power has set a new benchmark for other candidates to follow.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar criticizes President Tinubu's electricity record, vows to address power crisis if elected.
- Atiku promises to work with state governments and regulators to abolish the present band system and replace it with a fair, transparent, and affordable framework.
- Atiku emphasizes that steady power that Nigerians can afford will be a national priority if he is elected.
