By Bavoriat Clara
A coalition of concerned Nigerians under the aegis of the South-South Guardian Forum (SSGF) has called on the Senate President to immediately inaugurate Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as the substantive Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), following what they described as an “unjustified delay” despite Senate approval.
The group’s Spokesperson, Comrade Andrew Odigwe, made the demand during a peaceful protest held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, stressing that the delay in inaugurating the NERC Chairman raises public suspicion and undermines democratic principles.
“We, the citizens of Nigeria, demand that the Senate President act swiftly to inaugurate Engr. Ramat as NERC Chairman. The delay is unjustifiable and raises concerns about the intentions of those behind it,” Odigwe stated.
He emphasized that Engr. Ramat’s wealth of experience and professional expertise in the electricity sector would be instrumental in driving reforms and improving power supply across the country. According to him, withholding his inauguration despite Senate confirmation is unconstitutional and detrimental to national progress.
“The Senate has already approved his appointment. It is time for him to assume duty and contribute meaningfully to addressing the challenges bedeviling the power sector,” Odigwe added.
The Forum urged the Senate President to respect the democratic process by allowing Engr. Ramat to assume office without further delay, describing his leadership as vital to the nation’s economic growth and energy development.
They also appealed to Nigerians to join their call for accountability and transparency in public appointments, insisting that political or personal interests must not override the nation’s welfare.
The group outlined three major demands to the Senate President:
- Immediate inauguration of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as NERC Chairman.
- Respect for the democratic process and Senate’s approval.
- Prioritization of national interest over personal or political considerations.
The coalition reaffirmed its confidence that Engr. Ramat’s leadership would bring much-needed reforms, transparency, and efficiency to Nigeria’s electricity regulatory framework.
