The prolonged power outage affecting major parts of Aba has entered another phase, with Aba Power Limited issuing fresh updates on the disruption even as electricity supply remains unstable across the commercial city.
The latest statements, released on August 1 and August 2, indicate that the company is still battling challenges affecting electricity generation by its primary power provider, Geometric Power Aba Limited (GPAL).
In its August 1 update, Aba Power attributed the continued blackout to a complete loss of gas supply to GPAL caused by what it described as technical faults at the gas supplier’s facility. The company also disclosed that it could not draw backup electricity from the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) because it had been cut off from the national grid.
“We deeply apologize for the ongoing power outage over the past days. We know how much this affects your daily lives and businesses,” the company stated.
A day later, the electricity distribution company announced that repairs were nearing completion, saying it had received assurances through GPAL that restoration work was almost concluded.
“We will not rest until this is fully resolved. We are committed to keeping you updated as we cross the finish line on this restoration effort,” the company said.
Despite the assurances, many residents and business owners across Aba said electricity supply has yet to return to normal, with several areas continuing to experience prolonged blackouts.
The outage has continued to affect commercial activities in the city, forcing many manufacturers, small businesses, technology firms, hospitals and other electricity-dependent establishments to rely on generators or suspend operations altogether because of rising energy costs.
The situation has also heightened security concerns, with residents expressing fears over increased vulnerability in neighbourhoods left in darkness at night.
Meanwhile, the prolonged disruption has fueled political discussions across the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Some residents and political observers have speculated that the crisis could have political undertones, arguing that the disruption comes at a time when stable electricity in Aba has become one of the signature achievements frequently highlighted by Governor Alex Otti’s administration.
The speculation has gained traction because the Abia State Government, under Governor Otti’s administration, became a major shareholder in the Aba electricity project following its investment in the company, a move widely viewed as part of efforts to strengthen power supply in the commercial city.
However, there is no evidence to support claims that any political party or political actors are responsible for the current power challenges, and neither Aba Power, Geometric Power, the Abia State Government nor security agencies have linked the outage to political interference.
Industry analysts maintain that electricity generation and distribution in Nigeria remain vulnerable to gas supply disruptions, technical failures and transmission constraints, all of which can significantly affect supply.
As businesses continue to count losses and residents await full restoration, many stakeholders are calling for greater transparency from the electricity company and relevant authorities on the exact cause of the outage, the expected timeline for restoration, and measures being taken to prevent similar disruptions in the future.