Residents groan as blackout hits Lagos communities

Residents of Goshen, Abuleokuta and Kusheyin communities in Lagos State's Bariga area have complained about frequent electricity blackouts, claiming they receive minimal power daily. The prolonged outage, which has lasted about four months, has devastated small businesses, forcing some traders to sleep outdoors due to the heat. According to Tolani Aliu, a resident, the situation has become unbearable, with power only briefly returning before being cut off again.

The limited supply is just about one hour per day. Another resident, Alhaji Moshood, noted that postpaid meter users pay high monthly fees, often disconnected or overcharged by the provider. Several affected streets in Goshen and Abuleokuta Communities, as well as Kusheyin Community, were identified by residents. The blackout has affected traders who rely on refrigeration to preserve perishable goods, leading to business losses and customers seeking alternative areas with electricity.

Some residents have resorted to sleeping outdoors due to the heat, exposing them to potential security risks. The Ikeja Electric Distribution Company spokesperson, Kingsley Okotie, was unresponsive to requests for comment.