By Precious Ademisoye, Testimony Olalekan
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed its displeasure over the abrupt disconnection of electricity supply to the University of Lagos (UNILAG) by the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) that resulted in a four-day blackout in the institution.
The power supply, which was disconnected on Tuesday, August 27, was restored on Saturday, 31st of August 2024.
Reacting to the development, the chairman of ASUU, UNILAG chapter, Professor Kayode Adebayo, expressed relief at the reconnection but condemned EKEDC’s decision to disconnect the University. He emphasized the need for the electricity distribution companies to reconsider their tariff policies and move away from the current billing categories.
Prof. Adebayo further criticized the government for treating public electricity as a privilege rather than a citizen’s right. He argued that academic institutions require constant power supply to function effectively.
The blackout caused significant disruptions, with university community members struggling to find places to charge their phones. Prof. Adebayo shared his personal experience of paying high electricity bills despite minimal usage, highlighting the need for a more equitable tariff system.
He warned that if the situation continues, it could result to widespread protests or even an “electricity war” in Nigeria.
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