Atiku Criticises Tinubu Over Persistent Power Outages, Rising Electricity Tariffs

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over Nigeria's persistent electricity challenges, accusing his administration of offering excuses instead of addressing the country's power supply problems.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Senior Media Aide, Phrank Shuaibu, Atiku said the government's explanations for the poor electricity supply were doing little to ease the difficulties faced by households and businesses.

Atiku Questions Electricity Tariffs

Atiku argued that Nigerians continue to pay electricity bills despite experiencing unreliable power supply. He noted that consumers are classified under Bands A, B, C, D and E, with different tariff rates depending on their locations and electricity providers.

He cited Band A customers in some areas as paying about ₦209.50 per kilowatt-hour before Value Added Tax (VAT), questioning why consumers should face high charges without receiving consistent electricity.

According to him, the situation places additional pressure on families struggling to balance electricity expenses with other essential needs, while businesses are forced to spend more despite inadequate power supply.

Raises Concern Over Planned Subsidy Removal

The ADC chieftain also questioned the Federal Government's plan to end electricity subsidies from 2027, despite assurances that there would be no immediate increase in tariffs.

He called on the administration to explain how the proposed subsidy removal would affect electricity bills and what measures would protect consumers from additional financial pressure.

Atiku urged the Tinubu government to prioritise stable electricity supply and address the challenges affecting the power sector, rather than engage in what he described as political excuses and propaganda.

Daily Post