As widespread power outages continue across the northern states, especially in the Northeast, frustration is growing among residents, who feel abandoned by local leaders.
For over a week, the entire region has been plunged into darkness, causing business activities to halt and raising concerns about a potential rise in criminal activity.
The Guardian’s investigation revealed widespread discontent among community members, who are troubled by the perceived inaction of northern governors and legislative representatives.
Despite the power crisis affecting millions, local leaders, particularly the Northern Governors’ Forum, have remained conspicuously silent, fueling resentment and a sense of neglect among residents.
Community members who spoke with The Guardian expressed sadness over the lack of intervention, urging elected leaders to demand accountability from the relevant authorities.
With essential services stalled and economic losses mounting, residents warned that continued outages could heighten security risks in an already vulnerable region.
Local voices are calling for swift action, urging regional leaders to break their silence, address the pressing issue, and restore stability to the affected communities.
“What baffles most of us is the lukewarm attitude of our leaders towards the power outage in this part of the country,” said Alhaji Usman Milla.
Milla, who told The Guardian correspondent that the situation is becoming unbearable, warned that if not urgently tackled, it could worsen the already fragile security situation in the northern states, particularly the North-East.
Citing the crippling effect of the outage on businesses in the affected states, Milla expressed concern over the inability of some people to feed their families. He warned that if the situation is not immediately addressed, some individuals might resort to crime to support their families.
Lamenting the spoilage of soups and other food items stored in her fridge, Madam Agens Samuel said, “All my plans have been frustrated because of the total blackout we’ve been experiencing for the past week.”
Similarly, Salihu Alade, a vendor of sachet water and soft drinks, said he has decided to close his business and seek alternative means of livelihood until power is restored. “I will look for something else to do until the authorities deem it fit to restore power,” he added.
Blaming leaders from the region for the hardships citizens are facing, Alade argued that the leaders’ lack of proactivity has contributed to the persistent outages.
Like other respondents, Alade appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene. “Our leaders from this part of the country have failed us. We need the President to help restore power and save ordinary citizens.”
However, a source from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) advised residents to switch off or unplug home appliances, as power is expected to be restored soon and might come with high voltage.