The two factions of the National Association of Nigerian Students, at the national level, have taken opposing sides over the performance of the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu.
Recently, the minister came under intense criticism after the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission announced that electricity consumers on Band A would begin to pay N225 per kilowatt hour as opposed to N68.
The band A group of electricity consumers, according to NERC, are Nigerians who enjoy a minimum of 20 hours of electricity daily.
Meanwhile, NANS factional Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, in a statement said that he has noticed a significant bad-to-worst movement in the availability of power since the minister assumed office.
Babatunde, however, was worried over the increase in tariffs despite the minister’s alleged inability to achieve stable power in the country, thereby calling for Adelabu’s resignation.
But another factional Senate President of the association, Ekundayo Elvis, dismissed Babatunde’s claim on Tuesday, calling on Nigerians to be patient with the minister.
Ekundayo said it despite the sector’s hurdles, the minister’s tireless commitment to implementing reforms and driving projects signifies a positive shift towards addressing issues across the power value chain, encompassing generation, transmission, and distribution.
He further said, “From the successful completion of power plant projects to addressing liquidity challenges within the value chain and expanding rural electrification efforts, we are confident that the Honourable Minister’s initiatives will yield tangible improvements and lasting solutions. His strategic approach and unwavering resolve are poised to usher in enhanced power supply nationwide.
“We commend the Honourable Minister for his steadfast commitment to providing reliable and affordable electricity to every corner of the nation.
“Moreover, we unequivocally express our support for the Honourable Minister amidst the orchestrated attacks and collective opposition against the ministry under his leadership by individuals motivated by self-interest and narrow agendas.
“It is disheartening to witness certain entities, posing as student leaders, try to undermine the Honourable Minister’s commendable endeavours through unfounded criticisms and unjustified assaults on matters vital for the nation’s future.”
Ekundayo, however, implored the minister not to be swayed by the demoralising statements of the other faction and others insisting that the apex student body remains steadfast by him.
