Civil Society Threatens Mass Protest Over Persistent Power Outages in Niger State

 

Civil society groups in Niger State have issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) and the Niger Electricity Distribution Company (NEDC) over persistent power outages and alleged exploitative billing practices.

The groups warned that failure to address the issues could trigger a peaceful mass protest scheduled for March 3, 2026, in Minna. The action is being led by Comrade Lanre Sadiq Ishaq of Capacity Media Trust Radio – Human Rights Radio, alongside Dr. Jabi Abdullah, Chairman of the Niger State Civil Society Organisations.

Members of the Nigerian Bar Association and organised labour unions in the state are also expected to participate in the demonstration.

The protesters cited erratic electricity supply, delayed prepaid meter installations, and poor maintenance of infrastructure as the main grievances. They are demanding the immediate suspension of estimated billing, prompt restoration of power during outages, and equitable electricity distribution across all communities.

They also called for the installation of prepaid meters to ensure transparency and consumer control, stressing that distribution companies should bear the full responsibility for transformer repairs and infrastructure maintenance, without passing costs to customers.

In a statement, the civil society groups said:

“We cannot continue to pay for darkness. Electricity is a basic service, not a privilege. The people of Niger State deserve stable supply, prepaid meters, and transparent billing. Failure to provide these basic rights will compel citizens to demand accountability through peaceful protest.”

Protest participants are expected to carry placards and banners under the theme: “No Light, No Bill”, highlighting their demand for fairness, accountability, and reliable power supply.