Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) criticises the Federal Government’s planned increase in electricity tariffs, saying Nigerians should not bear the costs of longstanding failures in the power sector. Speaking to journalists in Ilawe-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Falana argues that the government should first deliver stable and uninterrupted electricity, noting that President Bola Tinubu had promised improved power supply during his campaign. He maintains that higher bills should not follow persistent poor service.

Falana also questions the government’s approach after privatising electricity distribution companies. He says authorities cannot distance themselves from the sector by shifting responsibility to private operators, arguing that distribution company shortcomings should still attract accountability. He alleges that some distribution company owners maintain close links with government officials, and he warns that such relationships should not protect the firms from scrutiny.

According to Falana, reforms should target improvements across electricity generation, transmission, and distribution rather than additional charges to consumers. He adds that if privatised firms cannot meet expectations, the government should either ensure effective operation or consider taking back control.