Nigeria’s Power Grid Near Collapse: DisCos Hemorrhage N2.4trn as Debt Hits N6trn

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABUJA — Nigeria’s power sector is teetering on the edge of systemic failure as new data reveals that Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) recorded a staggering N2.349 trillion in financial losses over the last two years. 

The liquidity crisis, fueled by billing inefficiencies and a massive collection gap, has pushed the industry’s total debt to an estimated N6 trillion as of December 2025. This financial black hole is now manifesting as nationwide blackouts, with grid supply plummeting from 4,600MW to less than 3,500MW in early 2026.

A Breakdown of the Financial Hemorrhage

According to commercial performance data from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the financial health of DisCos has deteriorated rapidly: 2024 Losses: N1.015 trillion, 2025 Losses: N1.334 trillion (a 31.4% year-on-year increase), Primary Culprits: Billing inefficiencies (N649.87 billion) and weak revenue collection (N684.28 billion).

Despite slight fluctuations throughout 2025, the fourth quarter saw a 16% spike in losses, signaling that current recovery strategies are failing to stem the tide.

The "Dark" Reality: Generation Drops and Gas Shortages

The financial instability at the distribution end has created a ripple effect across the entire value chain. Generation Companies (GenCos), currently owed over N6 trillion, are struggling to pay gas suppliers. In response, gas producers have scaled back deliveries, forcing thermal plants to shut down units.

"No one is willing to pay for electricity not supplied," says Chijoke James, Chairman of the Electricity Consumers Association of Nigeria, pointing to the vicious cycle of "estimated billing" and consumer resistance.

In major hubs like Abuja and Delta State, "rolling blackouts" have become the norm. Residents in areas like Karu and Lokogoma report receiving as little as three hours of power daily, forcing a reliance on expensive diesel and petrol generators.

The Villa's Exit: A Vote of No Confidence?

In a symbolic blow to the sector, the Presidential Villa has begun transitioning to a N17 billion solar mini-grid project. While officials cite "energy security," the move has drawn sharp criticism from industry leaders.

Engr. Chijoke Okwuokenye, Acting MD of AEDC, argued that the exit sends the wrong signal: “The Villa could easily have been assured uninterrupted power supply with a little more investment in storage... This would have demonstrated confidence and support for the sector.”

The Path Forward: Metering or Bailouts?

Experts argue that the sector's survival hinges on transparency rather than government interventions. Mr. Bode Fadipe, Lead Consultant at Sage Consulting, emphasizes that "end-to-end metering" is the only solution to the trust deficit.

"Sector operators believe the Federal Government will always provide a bailout," Fadipe noted, calling for more political will to enforce accountability. Without a radical shift toward accurate measurement and collection, the Nigerian lights may continue to flicker or go out entirely.

Ex-Acting Accountant-General Bags 72 Years Over N868m Fraud

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABUJA, Nigeria – In a landmark judgment for Nigeria’s anti-corruption crusade, the Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced the former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Chukwunyere Anamekwe Nwabuoku, to 72 years in prison.

The conviction follows a rigorous prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving a staggering **N868.46 million money laundering scheme.

The Verdict: A Fall from Grace

The EFCC confirmed the sentencing on Monday via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle. Nwabuoku was found guilty on nine amended counts of money laundering. The court's decision marks the end of a high-profile trial that began following his arraignment on January 15, 2025.

Nwabuoku’s tenure as the nation's top accountant was brief and shrouded in controversy. He was appointed in May 2022 to replace the suspended Ahmed Idris who was himself embroiled in an N80 billion fraud scandal only to be removed just weeks later.

The Anatomy of the Fraud

The prosecution successfully argued that Nwabuoku, during his previous stint as the Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Defence (2019–2021), conspired with several shell companies to siphon public funds.

Entities involved in the laundering scheme included: Temero Synergy Concept Limited, Turge Global Investment Limited, Laptev Bridge Limited, Arafura Transnational Afro Limited.

The EFCC alleged that these companies were used to convert funds that were proceeds of unlawful activities, a direct violation of Section 18 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011.

"The conviction of a high-ranking official like Nwabuoku sends a clear signal that the era of impunity in the civil service is drawing to a close," an EFCC spokesperson stated.

Lagos Assembly Member Bonu Solomon Facilitates 5 Transformers for Badagry Communities

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a major move to tackle electricity challenges and improve the socio-economic wellbeing of his constituents, Hon. Bonu Solomon, the lawmaker representing Badagry Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, has facilitated the delivery of five brand-new transformers to various communities. 

The high-capacity electrical units were officially delivered on Sunday, March 22, 2026, sparking widespread celebration among residents who have endured years of power instability. The distribution spans across both Olorunda LCDA and Badagry Local Government, ensuring that the benefits of the "Greater Lagos" vision reach the grassroots level.

The intervention was strategically split to address the most pressing needs within the region. In Badagry Constituency 1, three transformers were allocated to the Iworo-Gbanko Ward, specifically benefiting: Oko-Agbon Kekere/Obele, Olorunda LCDA. Itesiwaju-Ilu, Imeke, Olorunda LCDA. Whitehouse CDA, Ilado, Olorunda LCDA.

Extending his impact beyond his primary constituency, Hon. Bonu also facilitated two additional units for Badagry Constituency 2, targeting: Baale Way, Atinprome, Badagry Local Government. Ajagbe CDA, Atinprome, Badagry Lagos.

 

Addressing the gathering at his own residential community, Hon. Bonu expressed his gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadiri Hamzat for their unwavering support. He assured residents that the transformers would not just be "dropped" but properly connected to the national grid to ensure immediate functionality.

"I won't relax the responsibility the people have given me as their representative," Hon. Bonu stated. "More projects are coming. All we ask is total support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates heading into 2027. We want to surpass our previous vote counts to ensure even more development returns to Badagry."

In a further boost to the community, the lawmaker also promised a forthcoming distribution of free prepaid meters to end the era of estimated billing.

The atmosphere in the beneficiary communities was one of profound relief. Hon. Tunde Hunpatin, Chairman of the Whitehouse CDA in Ilado, revealed that the community had been struggling with transformer issues for 12 years. 

"We intensified our efforts over the last eight years with letters to the distribution company in Ijora to no avail. Hon. Bonu promised to support us, and today, it has materialized. He is a wonder man," Hunpatin remarked.

Similarly, Mr. Ibrahim Adekunle, Chairman of Oko-Agbon Kekere, noted that their cluster of three CDAs (Oko-Agbon Kekere, Oko-Agbon Unla, and Irete) had suffered for over a year without a functional unit. 

Chief Medepo Joshua, the Baale of Atinprome, shared his surprise at the speed of the intervention: "I called him on the 14th about our spoilt transformer. He promised a replacement, and today it is here. I am beyond happy."

2027: Yegovodu Movement Backs Bonu Solomon for Second Term, Cites "Extensive Delivery"

By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS — In a major early boost for the 2027 electoral cycle, the influential Yegovodu Movement has officially endorsed Hon. Bonu Solomon, the member representing Badagry Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, for a second term in office.

The endorsement, which took place on Sunday, was characterized not just as a show of support but as a formal "declaration of intent" by the people, urging the lawmaker to recontest his seat to continue his developmental strides.

Led by Olufemi Sewanu Iroko, the group highlighted Hon. Bonu’s performance over the last two and a half years as the primary driver for their decision. Beyond the traditional legislative role of lawmaking, Iroko praised Bonu's prowess in the "art of lobbying," which has brought tangible benefits to his constituents.

"We have looked at your work... we feel you have delivered extensively," Iroko stated during the presentation. "Beyond making laws, you have shown to be someone who has a talent for lobbying. That is why your constituents and beyond are enjoying the dividends of democracy."

The group cited significant achievements during Bonu's first 30 months in office. The movement solidified its stance by donating campaign souvenirs to kickstart the 2027 awareness drive. Iroko emphasized that the call to return to the Lagos State House of Assembly was a collective plea from the people of Badagry.

Visible moved by the gesture, Hon. Bonu Solomon expressed his gratitude to the Yegovodu Movement for their proactive support. He reaffirmed his commitment to the progress of the constituency.

"I thank you for your support towards me and Badagry," Bonu said. "I promise not to disappoint you."

2027: Hon. Padonu Ismail Targets Badagry Assembly Seat, Demands End to "Sentimental Politics"

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Padonu Ismail Sewedo 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The race for the 2027 Lagos State House of Assembly has gained early momentum as Hon. Padonu Ismail Sewedo officially declared his ambition to represent Badagry Constituency I, premising his campaign on a bold call for equity and a departure from the political status quo.

In a statement released on Monday, the Ajido-born grassroots mobilizer challenged the existing "political sharing formula" in the region, urging stakeholders to prioritize competence and capacity over favoritism. 

Hon. Sewedo’s declaration isn't just a bid for office; it’s a critique of the "sentimental considerations" he argues have long stifled Badagry’s growth. He emphasized that for the division to thrive, the selection process for leadership must be rooted in merit.

“The future of Badagry depends on electing leaders who possess both grassroots understanding and the technical know-how to deliver impactful representation,” Sewedo stated.

As a "full-blooded" indigene who has spent years in the political trenches, Hon. Sewedo is positioning himself as a bridge between traditional grassroots mobilization and modern governance. His legislative roadmap is anchored on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with specific focus on:

Youth Empowerment: Creating sustainable pathways for the younger generation.

Quality Education: Improving infrastructure and access to learning.

Economic Growth: Leveraging Badagry’s unique position for trade and tourism.

Social Inclusion: Ensuring no community is left behind in the legislative process.

Addressing party leaders and the electorate directly, Sewedo warned of the long-term risks of choosing "political convenience" over effectiveness. He argues that the cost of poor representation is a slowdown in development that the people can no longer afford. 

With his slogan, “Send me, I can represent better,” he is making a clear pitch: he has paid his dues, he knows the pulse of the people, and he is ready to translate their aspirations into legislative results at the Alausa Assembly.

"Unite or Face Lawsuit": Lagos PDP Members Issue Stern Warning Amid Leadership Crisis

By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS — The internal turmoil within the Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reached a tipping point, as prominent members now threaten to drag the party's leadership to court if the ongoing factional crisis is not resolved immediately.

The warning was spearheaded by Abayomi Medemaku, a legal professional and two-time candidate for both the House of Representatives and the Badagry Local Government chairmanship. Speaking on Friday, Medemaku expressed deep frustration over the emergence of parallel executive committees that have effectively split the party into two warring camps.

The crisis stems from two separate congresses held by rival groups, each claiming legitimacy over the party’s structure in Lagos:

The Makinde/Bode George Faction: This group reportedly conducted its election months before the expiration of the current tenure, leading to a period where they were referred to as "Excos-elect" of Lagos State for nearly seven months.

The Wike/Deji Doherty Faction: This faction recently conducted its own State Congress, inaugurating Muka Popoola as the Chairman of the faction. This move followed the dissolution of existing state executives by the national leadership loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

"In as much as I am not happy with the parallel Excos in Lagos State. I am consoled by the fact that both factions will serve as a check on each other," Medemaku noted, highlighting the high stakes of the "monopoly of manipulation" currently plaguing the party.

Medemaku, who describes himself as "100% PDP," "60% Wike," and "40% Makinde," warned that the patience of Lagos State party faithful has worn thin. He called for an immediate meeting of the two groups to harmonize their lists and form a single, formidable state executive.

The legal threat is born out of a desire to prevent "selfish personal interests and ego" from destroying the party’s chances ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

The members' demands include:

Immediate Harmonization: Merging the two executive lists to create a unified leadership in the state.

End to Parallel Governance: Dissolving the "factional" mindset that has paralyzed party operations in Lagos state.

Focus on 2027: Prioritizing party stability over individual loyalty to national leaders.

For stakeholders in the Badagry division and beyond, the split in Lagos PDP is seen as a major setback to providing a credible opposition to the ruling APC. Medemaku emphasized that regardless of who eventually emerges as the National President of the party, a divided state chapter remains a "losing house."

"If Lagos State PDP is harmonized, we will remain one," he stated. "We cannot fold our hands and watch our party be destroyed."

Badagry to Ouidah: Hon. Solomon Bonu Leads Cross-Border Mission to Revolutionize Lagos Tourism

By: Manoah Kikekon 

In a move to reposition Badagry as a premier global heritage hub, a Lagos State delegation concluded a transformative two-day strategic working visit to the Republic of Benin on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. The mission, led by the Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Solomon Saanu Bonu, alongside the Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, marks a new era in cross-border cultural diplomacy.

The visit was specifically designed to study the Republic of Benin’s successful "Heritage Corridor" and adapt international best practices to the ongoing redevelopment of Badagry’s historical sites. By bridging the gap between Lagos and Cotonou, the state government aims to create a seamless West African tourism circuit that honors the shared history of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

The delegation featured a rare blend of legislative, executive, and technical expertise. Joining Hon. Bonu and Commissioner Benson-Awoyinka were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works, Engr. Adekunle Olayinka, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila. 

To ensure the technical feasibility of upcoming infrastructure projects in Badagry, the team also included Engr. Salim Abou Jaoude, the Managing Director of Sageto Nigeria Limited. This inclusive team structure signals that the Lagos State Government is moving beyond mere policy talk toward the actual physical transformation of Badagry’s tourism landscape.

The core of the itinerary focused on Ouidah, a city globally renowned for its immersive historical storytelling. The Lagos delegation toured the emotive Point of No Return, the ancient Slave Market, and the towering, iconic Amazon Statue. 

Hon. Solomon Bonu noted that seeing Ouidah’s management of these sensitive sites provided "valuable exposure to international standards." The goal is to replicate this level of maintenance and visitor experience in Badagry, ensuring that sites like the Point of No Return on Badagry’s Gberefu Island can compete on the global stage.

The presence of the Special Adviser on Works, Engr. Adekunle Olayinka, was pivotal. For tourism to thrive in Badagry, the access roads and surrounding infrastructure must match the historical significance of the sites. The delegation assessed how the Republic of Benin integrated world-class road networks with cultural landmarks, providing a blueprint for the "Greater Badagry" development plan.

"This is about more than just history; it’s about economic growth," Hon. Bonu remarked during the tour. "By elevating Badagry’s tourism standards, we are creating jobs, attracting foreign exchange, and ensuring that our heritage becomes a sustainable asset for future generations."

The visit to the Amazon Statue, a tribute to the legendary all-female military regiment of the Kingdom of Dahomey, served as an inspiration for the delegation. It highlighted the power of monumental art in tourism. Lagos State intends to leverage similar narratives to honor the resilience and history of the Badagry people, repositioning the town as a destination for both education and inspiration.

Commissioner Toke Benson-Awoyinka emphasized that the tour was an exercise in cultural diplomacy. By strengthening ties with the Republic of Benin, Lagos is fostering a regional partnership that could lead to joint tourism packages, allowing global travelers to explore the "Slave Route" across both nations with ease.

As the delegation returns to Lagos, the focus shifts to implementation. The insights gained from Ouidah’s immersive cultural experiences are expected to influence the final touches on several ongoing projects in Badagry.