Here is a roundup of some Nigerian newspaper headlines, accompanied by our advocacy-driven demands for government action in addressing citizens’ concerns.
1. The Guardian: DisCoS Overbill Two Million Customers, Struggle With Metering, Efficiency
More than two million Nigerian electricity consumers were overbilled by Distribution Companies (DisCos) in 2024, a development which has led to credit adjustments totalling N105.05 billion amid rising estimated bills and violation of market orders.
Our Take: We call on the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to prioritise mass metering, ensure transparency in the application of the Band A tariff, and hold erring DisCos accountable through strict regulatory penalties and public disclosures. Nigerian households deserve fair, accurate billing and an electricity system that is accountable to its users.
2. Vanguard: Quality of Local Government Elections Still Low, Says INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has lamented the ‘low quality’ of local government elections conducted by the States’ Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), seeking improvements in the areas of planning, execution and adherence to statutory electoral timelines.
Our Take: The poor quality of local government elections remains a major setback to democratic accountability at the grassroots, and it is time for urgent reform. We call on the Forum of States Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) to take concrete steps, working closely with INEC to strengthen the credibility, independence, and capacity of SIECs.
We also urge state governments to respect the autonomy of these electoral bodies, while we call on the National Assembly to consider constitutional and legal amendments to standardise and safeguard the integrity of local government elections across Nigeria.
3. Daily Trust: ACF Says North Sidelined as Tinubu’s Men Showcase Projects
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has raised concerns over the alleged marginalisation of Northern Nigeria in federal budget allocations and infrastructure development under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Our Take: The concerns raised by the ACF must not be dismissed. We call on President Bola Tinubu and his administration to ensure equitable distribution of resources and development initiatives across all regions, including the North, in line with the principles of fairness and national unity.
