HURIWA blasts Tinubu govt over N10bn solar power project

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has lashed out at President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the proposed N10 billion solar power project for the Presidential Villa, describing it as a glaring admission of the government’s failure to fix Nigeria’s electricity sector.

Discovererngr.com reports that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently approved the massive solar power upgrade for the Villa, sparking outrage among Nigerians who questioned the timing and cost of the project amid worsening economic hardship.

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, on Sunday, HURIWA criticised the Minister of Power for what it called “gross incompetence” and accused the government of hypocrisy.

“The decision to transition the Villa to solar energy confirms that the national electricity grid is unreliable and unaffordable. This is an open admission of failure,” HURIWA stated. “It’s also proof that the tariffs imposed by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and the Distribution Companies (DisCos) are not only unsustainable but fraudulent.”

HURIWA also slammed the Presidency’s attempt to justify the project by citing the use of solar panels at the White House in Washington, D.C. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, shared a video of the White House’s solar setup, claiming Nigeria was simply aligning with global renewable energy standards.

“The White House in Washington, D.C. uses solar power,” Onanuga wrote, defending the transition as a step toward sustainability and energy efficiency.

But HURIWA rejected the comparison as tone-deaf and “a clear case of misplaced priorities.” The group questioned why such a large sum was being committed to a single location when millions of Nigerians are still in darkness and struggling to afford basic electricity.

“This N10 billion solar project is not just selfish—it’s a slap in the face to over 150 million Nigerians still battling epileptic power supply. The government’s narrative that Nigerians are now enjoying stable electricity is simply false,” the statement added.

HURIWA further condemned the new electricity Band classification system, calling it a scam “on par with Hushpuppi-style fraud.” The Band system, which determines how much electricity consumers pay based on their supply hours, has been heavily criticized since its implementation.

According to sources, the solar project will power the President’s residence, key administrative offices, and other critical structures within the State House, with long-term cost savings and environmental benefits cited as key justifications.

While some Nigerians have applauded the eco-friendly shift, many others believe the government’s priorities are misplaced, especially at a time when the country is grappling with soaring inflation, fuel price hikes, and increased electricity tariffs.