Atiku Challenges APC Defense of Tinubu's Electricity Record

Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, has launched a fresh attack on the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council over its defense of President Bola Tinubu's electricity commitments. Speaking on November 1, Atiku rejected what he termed the APC-PCC's attempt to justify the government's power sector performance, stating that Nigerians cannot rely on policy statements when their homes and businesses lack reliable electricity.

The criticism centers on Tinubu's 2022 campaign pledge to deliver constant electricity within four years and eliminate estimated billing. Atiku recalled this specific promise, noting that the four-year period has now elapsed yet Nigerians continue to experience erratic supply and rising electricity tariffs.

He argued that the government's response, which involves announcements about legislation, bonds and committees, does not address the fundamental problem of inadequate power delivery across the country. Atiku outlined the practical challenges facing Nigerian consumers: unreliable electricity access, escalating utility costs, and the expensive burden of purchasing alternative power sources such as generators and inverters.

He suggested that the electricity banding system requires reform and questioned the government's strategy regarding subsidy management in the power sector. His statement positioned the issue as one of accountability rather than technical planning.

The ADC candidate's remarks represent an escalation in political pressure on the administration's electricity record, an issue that has remained contentious since Tinubu took office in May 2023. The exchange reflects broader disagreement between the ruling party and opposition figures over whether the government has made meaningful progress in the power sector or merely offered rhetorical solutions to a persistent infrastructure challenge.