Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has effectively admitted failure in the power sector following reports that the Presidential Villa plans to disconnect from the national grid and rely entirely on solar energy.
In a statement posted on his verified X account, Obi referenced Tinubu’s campaign pledge on electricity supply and argued that recent developments contradict that commitment.
“If I do not provide steady electricity in four years, do not vote for me for 2nd Tenure,” – BAT.
Obi noted that 32 months into the administration, millions of Nigerians are still grappling with erratic power supply, insisting that the decision to move the Presidential Villa off the grid amounts to an acknowledgement of systemic failure.
“Thirty-two months after being incharge and instead of living by his powerful words, he now dumps National Grid that has been performing abysmally under his watch,” Obi stated.
According to him, Tinubu’s earlier remarks had inspired hope among Nigerians who expected stability in electricity supply.
“Those were the powerful words then that inspired hope among Nigerians who longed for light in their homes, stability for their businesses, and growth for their nation.”
The former governor expressed concern over what he described as the lack of transparency regarding the administration’s challenges in fixing the power sector. He pointed to allocations in the 2025 and 2026 budgets for solar power projects at the Presidential Villa.
“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 ₦10 billion for solar power at Aso Rock, and in 2026 budget another humongous amount for upgrade and maintenance and now we are being scarcitically told that Presidential Villa has planned to be disconnected from the national grid to rely entirely on solar.”
Obi argued that government institutions should lead efforts to strengthen the national grid rather than withdraw from it.
“It is a gross neglect and deeply worrisome when the seat of power abandons the national grid. One would expect government institutions to 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 then will connect the ordinary Nigerian to reliable power?”
While acknowledging the importance of renewable energy, Obi maintained that leadership must reflect empathy 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. You cannot tell the people to fast while feasting yourself, securing yourself while Nigerians remain unsecured.”
He added that Nigerians expect visible effort and measurable progress from their leaders.
“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.”
