Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has criticized the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, accusing him of failing Nigerians by not delivering a consistent supply of electricity despite increasing tariffs.
Falana made these remarks during an interview with Channels Television on Tuesday, where he condemned the recent hike in electricity tariffs imposed by the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
Describing the power policy as “the illegality of tariffs,” Falana pointed out that neither the federal government nor Adelabu could justify the tariff hike.
“The Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, has failed to address the question of the illegality of the tariffs,” Falana stated. He cited Section 116 of the Electricity Act 2023, which mandates a public hearing before approving tariff increases—a requirement that was not fulfilled in this case.
Furthermore, Falana expressed concern over what he perceived as impunity on the part of the federal government and NERC, emphasizing that their actions lacked legal backing.
“I have already given notice to the commission because these guys are running Nigeria based on impunity, and we cannot continue like this,” he declared. “All actions of the government and individuals must comply with the provisions of relevant laws.”
Falana alleged that the Nigerian government is following directives from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, which advocate for the removal of subsidies and the commercialization of social services.
“The Honourable Minister of Power is acting out the script of the IMF and the World Bank,” Falana asserted. “So, the government cannot afford to protect the interest of Nigerians where you are implementing the neoliberal policies of the Bretton Wood institutions.”
The lawyer’s remarks highlight growing discontent among Nigerians over the electricity tariff hike, which has further strained the already precarious relationship between the government and the populace.
As calls for transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law mount, it remains to be seen how authorities will respond to these grievances and address the pressing issue of electricity supply in the country.