Call for Presidential Action on Power Sector Crisis
Olatunbosun Oyintiloe, who served as the representative for Obokun State constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly from 2015 to 2019, has urged President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action regarding Nigeria’s growing power sector crisis. This situation has left households and industries struggling with unreliable electricity supply.
Growing Concerns Over Inadequate Power Supply
In a statement released to journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloe, the leader of the All Progressives Congress in Osun State, voiced his concerns about the deteriorating state of power supply despite significant federal investments in the sector. He highlighted that the power situation is “getting worse and worse,” affecting various segments of the economy.
Impact on Households and Businesses
Oyintiloe emphasized the detrimental effects of inadequate electricity supply on small businesses and large industries, alongside households increasingly reliant on domestic electricity. He called for urgent presidential intervention to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians.
Dire Consequences of Power Shortages
The former lawmaker warned that the current lack of electricity exacerbates the ongoing heat wave, making daily life increasingly unbearable for many Nigerians. He proposed the establishment of a commission to thoroughly investigate the reasons behind the repeated failures of the national power grid, as well as the persistent electricity shortages.
Critique of Federal Efforts and Infrastructure Failings
According to Oyintiloe, the power crisis continues unabated, impacting both small enterprises and large industrial operations. Most households are struggling to receive even three hours of electricity each day. He criticized the government, stating that despite numerous reforms and commitments to improve the situation, the electricity grid remains in a state of collapse, impacted by gas supply shortages, weak transmission infrastructure, and chronic underinvestment across the electricity value chain.
Urgent Solutions Needed
Nigerians, he said, are frustrated. Oyintiloe urged the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and his team to take immediate action, stating that this ongoing situation is untenable. He warned that increasing public discontent has already led to a series of peaceful protests across the nation, with unrest likely to escalate if the issue is not resolved swiftly.
Electricity as a Fundamental Need
Stressing the necessity of reliable electricity for both households and businesses, Oyintiloe pointed out that, despite assurances from officials and substantial investments in the sector since late last year, dependable power supply remains elusive. He expressed deep concern that the current power shortages add another burden to the myriad challenges faced by Nigerians, particularly as rising fuel costs make it harder for those relying on generators to manage their electricity needs.
Recent Protests Highlighting Public Discontent
While acknowledging President Tinubu’s efforts to initiate reforms across various economic sectors, Oyintiloe underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive investigation into the power sector’s poor performance. Reports indicate that certain communities within the Osogbo metropolis have recently conducted peaceful protests, demanding better electricity supply from the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company. During discussions with stakeholders, the company attributed the ongoing power crisis to a gas supply shortage that hinders the ability of power generation companies to meet demand.
