Ado Ekiti, Nigeria — April 25, 2025 — A governorship aspirant in the forthcoming 2026 Ekiti State election, Emmanuel Fayose, has strongly criticised the Federal Government’s recent approval of a ₦10 billion solar power project for the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, describing it as a misplaced priority and a display of insensitivity amid Nigeria’s widespread electricity crisis.
Fayose, who is vying for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket, made the remarks in a statement released Friday in Ado Ekiti. He said the project demonstrates a growing disconnect between the leadership and the everyday struggles of Nigerians.
“While millions of Nigerians endure daily blackouts and businesses collapse due to unreliable power supply, the Presidency is investing ₦10 billion to ensure uninterrupted electricity for itself,” Fayose stated. “This action reflects a leadership increasingly disconnected from the struggles of ordinary citizens.”
The Federal Government had defended the Aso Rock solar grid project, stating it aligns with global best practices in sustainability and renewable energy.
However, Fayose argued that the priority should be nationwide electricity reform, not elite insulation.
He referenced President Bola Tinubu’s campaign promise to revamp the national power sector within his first year in office, asserting that nearly two years into his administration, the national grid remains highly unstable.
“Instead of fixing the national grid as promised, the President is now isolating himself from the very system he vowed to improve,” Fayose said.
He warned that such exclusive initiatives erode public trust, discourage unity, and divert attention from critical infrastructure gaps across the country.
Calling for a policy reevaluation, Fayose urged the Federal Government to redirect resources toward inclusive and scalable energy solutions that would benefit all Nigerians, not just those in positions of power.
“Investing in elite conveniences while neglecting the broader populace is unjust and detrimental to national progress,” he added.
Fayose’s criticism comes at a time when power supply challenges remain a major constraint on economic development, especially in rural and underserved urban communities.
