Labour leaders have strongly condemned the planned disconnection of Aso Rock from the National Grid by March 2026, describing it as a clear indication of the failure of Nigeria’s privatised electricity sector. The State House confirmed the plan on February 11, 2026, stating that Aso Rock would fully switch to solar power following successful trials at its Medical Centre, citing annual savings of N47 billion.
Critics argue that the move sends a negative message to Nigerians, suggesting that if the presidency itself abandons public electricity, ordinary citizens are left without hope. Labour leaders claim the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Distribution Companies (DisCos), and Generation Companies (GenCos) should be held accountable for the sector’s inefficiencies, and that privatisation has failed to meet the needs of the masses.
Trade unionist Comrade Owei Lakemfa described the disconnection as a loss of confidence in the energy sector and a symbolic disconnection from the citizenry, warning that it signals that “every Nigerian is on their own” regarding electricity access. Comrade Seun Abosede echoed this, stating that isolating Aso Rock from the grid during widespread power challenges deepens the gap between government and citizens.
Labour leaders insist that rather than disconnecting, the government should prioritise sustainable reforms, investment in electricity generation, and improvements in distribution to ensure reliable power for all Nigerians. They argue that leadership must address systemic challenges rather than insulating the presidency from national problems, especially ahead of critical national decisions in 2027.
Some voices, including Comrade Tunde Ogundele, defended the move, noting that Aso Rock’s adoption of solar power is progressive and could free up grid electricity for surrounding areas, similar to private sector innovations like the Dangote Refinery. Nevertheless, prominent critics such as Peter Obi view the disconnection as an implicit acknowledgment of the power sector’s ongoing failures.
