Former presidential candidate and political commentator, Peter Obi, on Monday criticised the abandonment of the National Grid by the Presidential Villa, calling it a “gross neglect” and a failure to lead by example. Obi shared his concerns on his X platform, highlighting the unfulfilled promise of steady electricity during the current administration.

Obi recalled Tinubu’s own pledge during the 2023 elections: “If I do not provide steady electricity in four years, do not vote for me for a second tenure.”

He expressed disappointment that, more than two and a half years into the administration, Nigerians are still grappling with unreliable electricity supply, while reports indicate that the Presidential Villa plans to disconnect from the National Grid to rely entirely on solar power.

He noted that previous budgets — N10 billion allocated for solar at Aso Rock in 2025, and another substantial sum in 2026 for grid upgrades — have yet to translate into stable electricity for citizens. “One would expect government institutions to lead efforts to strengthen and expand the grid so that other establishments, and ultimately, citizens can benefit,” Obi wrote.

While commending the promotion of renewable energy, Obi warned that such a move by the seat of power risks sending the wrong message: governance “lacking compassion and commitment to the governed.” He stressed that leadership should serve the people, not isolate itself from the daily struggles they face.

Obi concluded that while Nigerians do not expect 100 per cent fulfilment of promises, they do expect measurable efforts and transparency in addressing gaps: “You cannot tell the people to fast while feasting yourself, securing yourself while Nigerians remain unsecured.” (Text, excluding headline: The Guardian)