Minister of Power extends apology for ‘freezer remark’ amid tariff uproar
In a bid to quell mounting public outcry, Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has issued a formal apology for his recent controversial remarks regarding electricity consumption in Nigeria. Adelabu’s comments, perceived by many as disparaging and insensitive, ignited a firestorm of criticism, prompting calls for his resignation.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Adelabu expressed regret over his earlier statements, clarifying that his intention was not to offend but to advocate for more responsible energy consumption practices. He acknowledged the widespread backlash generated by his remarks and extended a sincere apology to Nigerians who felt slighted by his words.
“Anything we have said that is considered offensive, we are sorry about that,” Adelabu stated during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
The minister sought to contextualize his initial comments, emphasizing that they were intended as constructive advice aimed at promoting energy conservation and reducing consumers’ electricity bills. He underscored the importance of prudent energy management, particularly in light of recent tariff adjustments affecting certain consumer segments.
The controversy erupted following the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) decision to implement tariff increases for customers classified under Band A, who purportedly enjoy extended periods of uninterrupted power supply. Adelabu’s assertion that Nigerians lacked a culture of electricity consumption management in the face of subsidized power rates sparked widespread condemnation, with critics decrying the insensitivity of his remarks amidst prevailing economic challenges.
Amidst public outcry, Adelabu sought to clarify the rationale behind the tariff adjustments, emphasizing that they would primarily impact a minority of consumers within the electricity sector. Contrary to widespread speculation, he clarified that only approximately 1.5 million out of the sector’s 12 million consumers would be affected by the tariff hike.
The minister’s apology comes amidst growing discontent over the timing and implementation of the tariff increase, which coincided with the country’s ongoing economic crisis. Many Nigerians have voiced concerns about the perceived disconnect between government policies and the lived realities of ordinary citizens, particularly in the context of escalating living costs and dwindling purchasing power.
As Adelabu navigates the fallout from his remarks, the incident underscores the delicate balance between policy advocacy and public perception in Nigeria’s complex socio-political landscape. The minister’s contrition serves as a reminder of the importance of sensitivity and empathy in public discourse, particularly when addressing issues that directly impact the welfare of citizens.
Moving forward, stakeholders in the energy sector will be closely monitoring developments to gauge the government’s responsiveness to public concerns and its commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable policies that prioritize the interests of all Nigerians.
