The former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has criticised plans by the Aso Rock Presidential Villa to disconnect from the national electricity grid and rely entirely on solar power.
ThelensNG reports that the State House Permanent Secretary, Temitope Fashedemi, while defending the State House 2026 budget before the Senate Committee on Special Duties at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, some days ago, disclosed that the Presidential Villa will be disconnected from the national grid upon completion of its solar power project.
Reacting on Monday, Obi expressed dissatisfaction over President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s decision, recalling Tinubu’s promise that if he failed to provide electricity within four years, he should not be voted for a second term.
“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,” he lamented. “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 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) also decried that Nigerians are still grappling with unfulfilled electoral promises and that there has been no clear communication on any obstacles.
“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 said.
He described the situation as gross neglect and deeply worrisome, asserting that government institutions should not abandon the national grid but rather lead efforts to strengthen and expand it so that other establishments and citizens can benefit.
“If those in authority disconnect themselves from the system, who then will connect the ordinary Nigerian to reliable power?,” he asked, affirming that promoting renewable energy, such as solar systems, is commendable and necessary for the future.
However, Obi argued that the 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 stated. “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 added that leadership must serve the people, not isolate itself from their daily struggles.
