A controversy has erupted at the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) following the premature resumption of duties by Chairman-designate Abdullahi Garba Ramat. Despite the Presidency’s clarification that the current acting chairman, Musiliu Oseni, would remain in office until Senate confirmation, Ramat took over operations at NERC headquarters in Abuja. The development has raised concerns over adherence to due process and the potential implications for the agency’s leadership.
The confusion began when Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga issued two conflicting statements regarding Ramat’s appointment. Initially, Onanuga stated that Ramat would “resume pending confirmation,” but later revised the statement to say that the acting chairman would continue in office until the new chairman-designate is confirmed by the Senate. Despite the revised statement, Ramat proceeded to assume office, sparking questions about the legitimacy of his actions.
After taking charge, Ramat expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the appointment and pledged to prioritize efficiency in the Nigerian electricity supply industry. He emphasized that electricity supply would improve under his leadership and assured that “it will not be business as usual.” Ramat also highlighted the need for collective effort to enhance the efficiency of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry, stressing that distribution and generation companies must do the right thing.
The Senate is constitutionally mandated to confirm appointments of the NERC chairman and commissioners. With the Senate currently on recess and scheduled to resume on September 23, Ramat’s premature resumption has raised concerns about the potential implications for the agency’s leadership and the legitimacy of his appointment.
The situation has sparked concerns over procedural compliance and the potential consequences of Ramat’s actions. As a regulatory agency, NERC plays a critical role in ensuring the stability and efficiency of Nigeria’s electricity sector. The controversy surrounding Ramat’s appointment has raised questions about the potential impact on the agency’s operations and the sector as a whole.
