Lagos residents protest erratic electricity supply in Fadeyi

Residents of the Fadeyi area in Lagos staged a protest on Thursday over persistent electricity shortages, highlighting growing frustration with the country’s unreliable power supply.

Videos circulating on social media showed residents marching peacefully through the community while carrying placards that criticised the poor electricity service provided to the area. The demonstrators complained that power outages have become increasingly frequent, disrupting businesses and daily life.

Many of the protesters also raised concerns about estimated billing practices by electricity distribution companies, arguing that households are often charged high amounts despite receiving little or no electricity.

One placard carried during the demonstration read: “You are killing our business,” reflecting the frustration of small business owners who rely on steady power to operate.

Residents decry impact on businesses and livelihoods

The protest attracted the attention of motorists and passers-by as residents walked through parts of the neighbourhood to draw attention to their grievances.

Participants said the ongoing electricity shortages are severely affecting commercial activities in the area, particularly for traders and small businesses that depend on electricity for refrigeration, lighting, and equipment.

Nigeria’s electricity supply has long remained a major challenge, with frequent outages forcing many households and businesses to rely on expensive alternatives such as generators.

Power supply concerns persist despite sector privatisation

The demonstration also renewed wider public criticism of Nigeria’s electricity sector, which was privatised more than a decade ago with the aim of improving efficiency and service delivery.

Despite significant investments and reforms in the sector, power supply across the country remains inconsistent, leading to recurring protests and public complaints.

Several Nigerians have also taken to social media to criticise the Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, urging the government to address the persistent electricity shortages affecting communities across the country.

Also read: Osogbo minibus drivers protest rising fuel costs