Power Sector Turmoil: Calls for Minister Adelabu’s Dismissal Intensify Amid Policy Inconsistencies
The tenure of Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has come under intense scrutiny following a series of policy contradictions and controversial statements. The mounting criticisms have led to increased calls for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to dismiss Adelabu as he approaches his one-year anniversary in office on May 29, 2024.
Policy Contradictions and Regulatory Oversight:
Adelabu’s recent announcement at the 8th Edition of the Africa Energy Market Place in Abuja regarding the suspension of state governments’ electricity regulatory oversight sparked significant backlash. This stance appeared to contradict the provisions of the 2023 Electricity Act, which supports regulatory autonomy for states. Adelabu later attempted to clarify his position at a Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) workshop in Lagos, stating that the federal government would not oppose the 2023 Electricity Act and emphasized respect for the law.
Decentralization and Structural Changes:
Earlier this year, the NERC initiated the transfer of electricity market oversight to states like Enugu, Ekiti, and Ondo, marking a step towards decentralizing Nigeria’s power sector. This structural change aimed to empower states to control the generation, transmission, and distribution value chains. However, the inconsistency in Adelabu’s statements has added confusion to these efforts.
Controversial Statements and Public Backlash:
Adelabu’s public statements have further aggravated the situation. His remark in April blaming Nigeria’s power issues on citizens misusing electricity by keeping their freezers on sparked widespread anger. Although he later apologized, the damage was done. Additionally, Adelabu’s threat of nationwide blackouts if electricity price hikes were not implemented offended many Nigerians, who are already frustrated by frequent blackouts.
Stagnant Power Generation:
Nigeria’s power generation has remained stagnant, hovering between 3000 and 5000 megawatts since before the 2013 privatization, underscoring the need for effective leadership in the power sector.
Calls for Dismissal:
Critics, including stakeholders and energy experts, have been vocal about the need for Adelabu’s removal. Eze Onyekpere, Lead Director of the Centre for Social Justice, labeled Adelabu as the worst-performing minister and called for his dismissal. Wumi Iledare, Professor Emeritus and Executive Director of the Emmanuel Egbogah Foundation, highlighted the chaos and policy inconsistencies plaguing the sector. He emphasized the need for transformational ideas and policies to achieve sustainable national development.
Defense and Counterclaims:
Despite the criticisms, Bolaji Tunji, Adelabu’s Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, defended the minister’s performance, citing improvements in electricity supply under his stewardship. Tunji refuted claims of stakeholder dissatisfaction and asserted that power generation had increased from 4000 to 5000 megawatts.
Historical Context:
Adelabu’s potential dismissal would not be unprecedented, as former President Muhammadu Buhari sacked Maman Saleh as Power Minister in September 2021 due to similar issues of performance and policy direction.
Conclusion:
As Nigeria continues to grapple with its power sector challenges, the call for a decisive and effective leadership remains critical. The controversies surrounding Minister Adelabu underscore the urgent need for consistent policies and competent management to ensure sustainable development in the nation’s energy sector.
