Peter Obi Slams Tinubu Over Aso Rock Power Grid Disconnection Plan
Former Labour Party presidential candidate and African Democratic Congress chieftain Peter Obi has launched a scathing criticism of President Bola Tinubu's administration over its failure to provide stable electricity to Nigerians. The former Anambra State governor specifically targeted the government's plan to disconnect the Presidential Villa from the national electricity grid.
Failed Promises on Electricity Supply
In a statement released on his X social media platform, Obi reminded President Tinubu of his campaign promise to deliver steady electricity within four years of being in office. "Thirty-two months after being in charge and instead of living by his powerful words, he now dumps National Grid that has been performing abysmally under his watch," Obi wrote.
The political leader expressed deep concern about the administration's apparent abandonment of the national grid system. "It is a gross neglect and deeply worrisome when the seat of power abandons the national grid," he stated. "One would expect government institutions to lead efforts to strengthen and expand the grid so that other establishments, and ultimately, citizens can benefit."
Questioning Leadership Priorities
Obi pointed to what he sees as contradictory actions by the Tinubu administration. "Yet, while Nigerians are still grappling with that unfulfilled, categorical electoral promise – and without clear communication on the obstacles, if any, we read of provision in 2025 budget about the N10 billion for solar power at Aso Rock, and in 2026 budget another humongous amount for upgrade and maintenance," he noted.
The former presidential candidate posed a critical question about the implications of this move: "If those in authority disconnect themselves from the system, who then will connect the ordinary Nigerian to reliable power?"
Renewable Energy vs. Governance Responsibility
While acknowledging the importance of renewable energy solutions like solar power for Nigeria's future, Obi argued that the current approach sends the wrong signal about leadership and accountability. "Promoting renewable energy, as solar systems do, is commendable and necessary for the future. However, this situation reflects a deeper concern: governance lacking compassion and commitment to the governed," he explained.
Obi drew a stark comparison to emphasize his point: "You cannot tell the people to fast while feasting yourself, securing yourself while Nigerians remain unsecured."
Expectations of Leadership
The political leader clarified what Nigerians expect from their government. "Nigerians do not expect 100% fulfilment of promises, but they do expect 100% effort, accompanied by measurable improvements and clear explanations when gaps exist," he stated. "Leadership must serve the people, not isolate itself from their daily struggles."
This criticism comes against the backdrop of last year's commencement of a N10 billion solar mini-grid project to power Aso Rock. While this development shows a shift toward renewable energy, it also highlights what many observers see as a deepening lack of confidence in Nigeria's struggling national electricity grid system.
The debate raises fundamental questions about how Nigeria's leadership approaches the country's persistent electricity challenges and whether current strategies prioritize institutional solutions that benefit all citizens or create separate systems for different segments of society.
