In a strongly worded statement, Peter Obi has condemned the recent collapse of Nigeria’s national power grid, plunging large parts of the country into darkness once again.

He described the recurring issue as a “national shame” and a stark reflection of failed leadership and ineffective policy implementation.

Writing on his X-Handle, Obi questioned how much longer Nigerians must endure a power system that continuously fails to meet the critical needs of society.

He noted the significant role of reliable electricity in transforming the economy, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that drive job creation and contribute substantially to the nation’s GDP.

He noted the alarming disparity in power generation compared to other African countries, stating that while Nigeria generates less than 10,000 megawatts, South Africa and Egypt produce over 40,000 megawatts each. This failure, according to Obi, illustrates a governance deficit that stifles growth and potential.

Calling for urgent and comprehensive reforms, Obi stressed that Nigerians deserve a government committed to measurable indices of development. He concluded with a hopeful message: “A new Nigeria is possible.”

The statement read, “For the umpteenth time, the national grid has collapsed, plunging a huge part of the nation into darkness and exposing the fragility of Nigeria’s power infrastructure.

“This recurring disaster is a national shame and a glaring testament to the failure of leadership and policy implementation at the highest levels.

“How long must Nigerians endure a system that fails to provide one of the critical necessities for a productive society?

“This latest power grid collapse is emblematic of a leadership and government that have consistently failed to prioritise the welfare and economic well-being of the people.

“We all know the immense importance of power supply to the transformation of our economy. Its support to SMEs, which are the engine of job creation and a major contributor to our GDP, is immeasurable.

“Today, we are the fourth largest economy in Africa, having fallen from the number one position due to leadership failure over the years, including the persistent power crisis, which is critical when compared to smaller economies.

“South Africa, which is now the largest economy in Africa with a GDP of about $400 billion and 30% of our population, generates and distributes over 40,000 megawatts of electricity.

“Secondly, Egypt, the second largest economy with a GDP of about $350 billion and half of our population, generates and distributes over 40,000 megawatts.

“Algeria, the third largest economy, with about $300 billion GDP and 20% of our population, generates and distributes over 50,000 megawatts of electricity.

“Nigeria, with less GDP but with a larger population than the three countries combined, generates and distributes less than 10,000 megawatts, and even that is riddled with frequent collapses and crises of failure.

“This disparity in power generation is a reflection of the deep-rooted governance deficit that continues to hold back our growth and potential.

“It is time for urgent, comprehensive reform. Nigerians deserve a government that prioritises measurable indices of development.”