The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu has issued an apology to the Nigerian populace regarding his earlier remarks concerning individuals leaving their air conditioners and freezers operational when absent.
At the ministerial briefing last week on the recent increase in electricity tariff , Adelabu had rebuked Nigerians who tend to keep their air conditioners and freezers on when they are not present.
He highlighted the lack of a power consumption management culture among Nigerians due to the affordability of electricity.
He said, “Many individuals return home from work and promptly switch on the AC to cool the room before their arrival.
“Some individuals leave their freezers running for days, even when all the contents are frozen, and their absence of 5, 6, or 8 hours does not contribute to thawing, yet they continue to consume electricity simply because the costs are not significant.”
“We have all visited foreign countries before; we are aware of how mindful electricity consumers are about power usage.
However, while speaking on Thursday during Channels Television’s Politics Today, the minister clarified that he had no intention of insulting anyone.
According to him, “It was never my intention to offend the sensibilities of Nigerians. If you carefully watch that video, you will note that I never instructed people to turn off their freezers.
“It was a well-meaning recommendation regarding energy consumption management, which we believe could significantly reduce individuals’ energy expenditures.
“This advice was specifically aimed at those who, due to the recent tariff hike, have begun enjoying 20 to 22 hours of daily power supply. My message was that the 200 percent increase in electricity tariff for Band A, comprising 15 percent of electricity consumers, does not necessarily equate to a 200 percent rise in their electricity bills if power consumption is regulated.”
“Regarding the freezer example, I acknowledge that it may not have been well-received by the majority of Nigerians, and for that, I sincerely apologize. It was never my intention to offend anyone.”
“It was a product of my passion and enthusiasm to drive change in a sector that has faced numerous challenges over the years… in fact, the instances I cited also included air conditioners.”
“Numerous individuals leave their air conditioners running even when they are not in the room. Honestly, it was shared in a light-hearted manner. It was merely a humorous illustration and not a deliberate insult. To those Nigerians who felt hurt by the statement, I extend my apologies and ask for your forgiveness. This is our nation.”
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu apologizes to Nigerians for his comments about people leaving their "freezer and AC on." pic.twitter.com/51Vg2i6YqM
— Imran Muhammad (@Imranmuhdz) April 11, 2024
