2 hours ago
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ABUJA – The epileptic power supply in the nation’s universities, occasioned by the frequent collapse of the national grid is currently brewing a nationwide protest, which might be ochestrated by the National Association of University Students.
The students group has also advised the Federal Government to consider laying off the Managing Directors of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) over what it described as gross incompetence.
They lamented through a statement, signed by Comrade Meshach Nwankwo, NAUS National Deputy President (National and Campus Affairs) on Friday, that the persistent power outages was crippling academic activities at the university campuses nationwide.
The students group called out the managements of TCN and NERC, citing their failure to maintain a stable power supply and effectively manage the national grid.
“The recent collapse of the national grid on multiple occasions is unacceptable,” Nwankwo stated, “Students are suffering, and our education is being compromised due to the ineptitude of these officials.”
He said power outages have severely disrupted academic schedules, preventing practical classes and diminishing the overall quality of education.
According to him, businesses reliant on electricity are suffering significant losses due to the unreliable power supply.
The NAUS Executive noted that President Bola Tinubu’s recent dismissal of some members of his cabinet over alleged under-performance sets a precedent for holding public officials accountable.
Nwankwo said same standards should apply to the two organisations in the power sector.
“If no action is taken within the next five working days, we will mobilize nationwide protests to express our dissatisfaction and demand necessary changes,” Nwankwo warned.
“The power sector’s inefficiencies have far-reaching implications, affecting not only students but also the broader economy and societal development. “It is unacceptable that Nigeria, with its vast resources, continues to struggle with basic electricity supply,” Nwankwo added.
“NAUS has mobilized its chapters across the country, rallying students to join the planned protests. The association has also reached out to civil society organizations, labour unions, and other stakeholders to amplify the call for accountability.
“As the five-day ultimatum ticks down, students are bracing for a massive show of force, demanding that President Tinubu takes decisive action against the embattled TCN and NERC heads. The protests promise to be a defining moment in the struggle for accountability and better governance in Nigeria’s power sector.
“NAUS remains resolute in its demands, insisting that the removal of TCN and NERC bosses is a crucial step towards revitalizing Nigeria’s ailing power sector. We urge President Tinubu to seize this opportunity to demonstrate his commitment to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of Nigerian students,” the group noted.
