Ex-Labour Party candidate contrasts Nigeria’s 4,000MW output with South Africa’s 40,000MW, urges citizens to demand accountability

Former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has delivered a sharp rebuke of Nigeria’s chronic electricity crisis, insisting that continued underperformance in the power sector is unacceptable and indefensible.

Obi lamented that Africa’s most populous nation still generates roughly 4,000 megawatts of electricity—far below what is required to drive economic growth and meet basic household needs. He contrasted this with South Africa’s output of over 40,000 megawatts, noting that even at that level, South Africans still demand better service.

According to him, the real problem in Nigeria is not just capacity but a culture of lowered expectations among both leaders and citizens.

“This country must work. People cannot keep taking us for granted,” Obi said, stressing that Nigerians must reject excuses and hold public officials accountable for results.

He urged citizens to become more vocal in demanding improved governance, particularly in key sectors such as electricity, infrastructure, and economic management, which he described as critical to national development.

“If you cannot serve, please leave. We don’t need excuses,” he added, in a direct message to those in leadership positions.

Obi said his recent visit to South Africa reinforced his conviction that meaningful progress is achievable when leaders demonstrate competence, discipline, and genuine commitment to public service.

His comments come at a time of mounting public frustration over persistent blackouts, rising electricity tariffs, and the slow pace of reforms in Nigeria’s power sector.