Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised the Federal Government’s reported plan to disconnect the Aso Rock Presidential Villa from the national electricity grid and rely entirely on solar power, describing the move as insensitive and a failure of leadership.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Obi recalled the campaign pledge by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who had vowed not to seek re-election if he failed to provide stable electricity within four years.
“If I do not provide steady electricity in four years, do not vote for me for a second tenure,” Obi quoted the President during the election campaign.
Obi said that 32 months into the administration, Nigerians are still battling erratic power supply, with little improvement in the performance of the national grid.
“Thirty-two months after being in charge and instead of living by his powerful words, he now dumps a national grid that has been performing abysmally under his watch,” he said.
He expressed concern over budgetary allocations reportedly earmarked for solar power installations at the Presidential Villa, including about ₦10 billion in the 2025 budget and additional funds in the 2026 budget for upgrades and maintenance.
“While Nigerians are still grappling with unfulfilled promises and without clear communication on the obstacles, we now read of massive provisions for solar power at Aso Rock,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor said it was troubling that the seat of power would disconnect itself from the National Grid rather than lead efforts to fix it.
“It is a gross neglect and deeply worrisome when the seat of power abandons the national grid. If those in authority disconnect themselves from the system, who then will connect the ordinary Nigerian to reliable power?” he asked.
Obi acknowledged the importance of renewable energy but argued that governance must be guided by empathy and shared sacrifice.
“Promoting renewable energy is commendable, but you cannot tell the people to fast while feasting yourself, securing yourself while Nigerians remain unsecured,” he said.
He added that Nigerians may not expect total fulfilment of campaign promises, but they deserve visible effort, transparency and measurable progress.
“Leadership must serve the people, not isolate itself from their daily struggles,” Obi concluded.