Key Points
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The CJN calls for judicial action to address electricity-related fatalities.
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NERC reports a slight decrease in deaths, but vandalism remains a threat.
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The Attorney-General urges the judiciary to collaborate in navigating sector reforms.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, expressed serious concerns about the rising number of electricity-related deaths in Nigeria. She called for the judiciary to take a proactive role in enforcing safety regulations.
Kekere-Ekun stressed that the judiciary must ensure justice is served in these cases, especially as the electricity sector is rapidly evolving.
At the opening ceremony of the 2025 seminar on electricity sector regulations, Kekere-Ekun urged judicial officers to focus on enforcing stricter safety measures.
The National Judicial Institute (NJI) and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) organized the seminar, held in Abuja. The CJN stated that the safety of citizens should never be treated as incidental. It is, in fact, a legal and moral imperative.
NERC reveals data on electricity-related deaths and injuries
The NERC’s quarterly reports show 112 electricity-related deaths occurred in 2024. This marked a slight decrease from the 115 deaths reported in 2023.
Despite this reduction, the commission pointed out that vandalism remains a significant risk to both utility workers and the public. The NERC also recorded 95 injuries in 2024, which is a 6.9% decrease compared to 102 injuries in 2023.
The figures underline the urgent need for stronger judicial action. The CJN emphasized the importance of holding operators accountable for failing to meet safety standards.
Judicial officers must engage more rigorously with the seminar sessions and share their experiences in interpreting laws related to electricity-related disputes.
Attorney General stresses the need for judicial collaboration
Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, also discussed the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian electricity sector. He recognized the dynamic reforms and regulatory challenges shaping the industry.
Fagbemi emphasized that both legislative and judicial collaboration is crucial in addressing these challenges effectively.
He highlighted the judiciary’s role in enforcing the Electricity Act, 2023, and other relevant laws. He stressed that timely decisions in electricity-related cases are essential. These decisions will help maintain investor confidence and ensure uninterrupted electricity service.
