The 2023 Labour Party’s Presidential candidate, Peter Obi has slammed President Bola Tinubu over his alleged unfulfilled promise of providing steady electricity in his first four years.
Obi, in statement issued on his Facebook handle on Monday, recalled Tinubu’s campaign promise where he told Nigerians not to vote for him for a second term in office if he fails to provide steady electricity.
The former Anambra state governor maintained that the promise had inspired hope among Nigerians.
This, according to Obi, is far from being accomplished with no clear communication on the obstacles hindering the fulfillment of the promise.
The 2027 presidential hopeful described the situation as a gross neglect and deeply worrisome, considering the reported plan to install a N10 billion worth of solar power at the Presidential Villa and its subsequent disconnection from the National Grid.
“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.
“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.
“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 sarcastically told that Presidential Villa has planned to be disconnected from the national grid to rely entirely on solar.
“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?” Obi wrote.
While commending the promotion of renewable energy and acknowledging government’s inability to fulfill 100 percent of its promises, the former Anambra governor however harped on the need to make efforts and provide explanations in cases where promises are unfulfilled.
“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.
“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.” Obi added.
