Power Cut: South Africa Disconnects Nigerian High Commission
South Africa has disconnected electricity supply to the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria over unpaid utility bills, sparking concerns about the country’s diplomatic image. According to the City of Tshwane’s executive mayor, Nasiphi Moya, the decision was made as part of the city’s #TshwaneYaTima campaign, targeting consumers with significant outstanding debts.
The move has raised questions about the management of Nigeria’s diplomatic missions abroad, with many expressing embarrassment and concern over the country’s international reputation. This is not the first time the Nigerian High Commission has faced power disconnection over unpaid bills. In 2023, City Power, a South African electricity distribution company, cut off power to the Nigerian consulate in Johannesburg over a debt of at least R600,000 (about $35,000).
According to Moya, the city will reconnect electricity once the outstanding debt is settled. The Nigerian High Commission has not issued a public response regarding the disconnection or plans to settle the outstanding amount. The City of Tshwane has been cracking down on debtors, including government departments and private entities, to recover millions in unpaid bills.
The incident highlights the challenges facing Nigerian diplomatic missions abroad, including funding constraints, administrative bottlenecks, and leadership gaps. Many Nigerian embassies and high commissions have been operating without substantive ambassadors, weakening administrative oversight and slowing decision-making.
The power cut has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians calling for better management of the country’s diplomatic missions. The incident comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking to strengthen diplomatic ties and attract foreign investment.
Source: CTV NEWS
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Author: Korkor Anumu
