Nigeria suspends electricity provision to Niger Republic
The power outages stem directly from Nigeria's choice to halt the transmission of electricity to its neighboring northern country.
In response to the recent coup in The Republic of Niger, the Nigerian government has opted to suspend the provision of electricity to its neighboring nation. This action aligns with the sanctions put forth by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following the removal of democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum.
Niger Republic, which has traditionally enjoyed a reliable electricity supply, heavily depends on Nigeria to meet its energy demands. However, following the recent coup, numerous cities in Niger are contending with recurring power outages, significantly affecting the daily routines of citizens.
Information indicates that these power disruptions directly stem from Nigeria's decision to cease the transmission of electricity to its northern neighbor. In locations like Niamey, Maradi, and Zinder, residents have reported having access to power for only about an hour before enduring sudden blackouts lasting up to five hours.
Nigelec, Niger's electricity organization, has verified these interruptions and attributed them to Nigeria's suspension of power distribution. On the other hand, the Transmission Company of Nigeria has abstained from commenting on the situation when queried.
However, a source from BBC revealed that the cessation of power supply to Niger Republic was a formal action taken based on a directive from the leadership of the Bola Tinubu-led government in Nigeria. The precise motivations behind this directive have not been divulged.
The political climate in Niger Republic has remained charged since President Bazoum's ousting by his own presidential guards stationed outside his palace. With no constitutional authority in place, Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, the commander of the presidential guard, has assumed control and temporarily suspended the constitution.
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