Unstable Power Supply is Rising Insecurity and Economic Hardship – Kogi Residents Cry Out

Residents of Kogi State have expressed frustration over persistent power outages, linking the issue to rising insecurity and economic hardship. The blackout, which affects 19 northern states, has forced many businesses to close, compounding challenges in a period of high food prices and inflation.

Sunday Ichaba, a Lokoja resident, criticized the government’s inability to improve electricity supply, noting the severe impact on daily life. “Instead of upgrading, we are degrading, which hurts Nigeria’s reputation. We’re facing high food prices, and distribution companies’ bills are exorbitant,” he said, explaining that he pays N18,000 per month for electricity in a one-bedroom flat, despite receiving little or no power.

Ichaba urged President Bola Tinubu to address the issue urgently, emphasizing that the lack of nighttime illumination has created an opportunity for criminals. “Armed robbers have taken over the streets because of the darkness. Recently, criminals stole vehicles from an estate along Barracks Road,” he noted, calling for federal intervention.

Solomon Atabo, a hotel owner in Lokoja, shared how the erratic power supply has affected his business, leading to substantial losses. “In a day, I spend over N30,000 on fuel to run my generator for guests. I’m investing more than I’m earning,” he lamented, urging the government to address the crisis.

Hamza Aliyu, Executive Director of the Initiative for Grassroot Advancement (INGRA), criticized the federal government’s handling of the power sector. He encouraged local governments to prioritize rural electrification to mitigate the widespread impact of poor electricity. “Absence of power is fueling insecurity and shutting down businesses amid economic hardship. The government must act to ease the suffering of its citizens,” Aliyu asserted.

Residents continue to call for immediate government intervention, hoping for stable electricity supply to improve security and economic conditions across Kogi State.