APC Defends Tinubu’s Electricity Promise Amid Criticism

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council has come to the defense of President Bola Tinubu regarding his promise to end estimated billing and improve electricity supply. They claim his statements have been taken out of context.

Dele Alake, the council’s spokesperson, explained that Tinubu made this pledge while speaking to business leaders in Lagos before the 2023 elections. Alake emphasized that Tinubu aimed to tackle long-standing issues in the power sector, especially the problem of estimated billing that affects many households and businesses.

During his speech, Tinubu stated, “You will have electricity, and you will not pay for estimated bills anymore. A promise made will be a promise kept.” He also mentioned that if he fails to keep this promise, he would provide reasons to the public before seeking a second term.

Alake pointed out that some recent discussions have overlooked Tinubu’s commitment to explain his actions if he does not fulfill his promise. He urged people to consider the president’s efforts in the electricity sector since he took office in 2023.

Among these efforts, Alake noted that Tinubu signed the Electricity Act 2023, allowing state governments to engage in electricity generation and distribution. Several states, including Lagos and Enugu, have already set up regulatory agencies to attract private investment.

Additionally, the government launched the Presidential Metering Initiative to address the issue of unmetered electricity customers, with over a million customers metered in the past three years. Alake also mentioned plans to tackle significant debts in the power sector and raise funds to pay power companies.

While acknowledging ongoing challenges in the power sector, Alake insisted that Tinubu remains dedicated to his campaign promise. He stated that as Tinubu seeks re-election, he will present his achievements in the power sector to the public.