Nigerians react angrily after Tshwane mayor disconnects, restores electricity at High Commission
The City of Tshwane’s decision to disconnect electricity at the Nigeria High Commission in Pretoria has triggered a backlash on social media, with several Nigerians accusing Mayor Nasiphi Moya of publicly embarrassing the populous West African nation.
Moya said in a post on X at 12:07 on February 2: “#TshwaneYaTima: We’ve disconnected electricity at the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. They owe the city for utility services.”
The post, which included a photograph of the Nigerian High Commission building, attracted widespread attention and had garnered more than 1.8 million views.
Hours later, at 14:47, Moya posted a follow-up message on X, saying: “We thank the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for honouring its debt to the city. The city will reconnect electricity,” tagging the City of Tshwane.
The posts sparked strong reactions on X, particularly from Nigerian users who criticised both the disconnection of electricity at the diplomatic mission and the decision to announce it publicly.
X user Akeem wrote: “Stop disrespecting Nigeria. When you all think of how to become popular or trend, the Nigeria or Nigerians come to your mind for dragging. This was never necessary to be posted on X, but all you wanted was to trend on Nigeria. Congratulations to you gained popularity.”
Another user, Olori Oluseun, questioned the follow-up post, writing: “Why thanking again after you have dragged us online already?”
Millionaire BusinessMan described the incident as disrespectful, writing: “Seriously Nigeria needs to be respected on the African continent, how can we be so disrespected? We are the big brother here and where is our honour?”
Some users expressed scepticism about the announcement that payment had been made.
We thank the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for honouring its debt to the city. The city will reconnect electricity . @CityTshwane https://t.co/h9J54J2ue4
— Dr Nasiphi Moya (@nasiphim) February 2, 2026
X user Nnayi wrote: “Show us the valid receipt that shows the payment for the reconnection of the electricity. Because we know how Nigeria government can overturn truth very fast. We need to be sure you were not paid to make this post.”
Others reacted dismissively, with X user Sage commenting: “They probably said ‘abeg for another weeko’.”
The incident comes as the City of Tshwane steps up revenue collection, with Moya in recent weeks using social media to announce electricity disconnections affecting various entities, including South African government departments, over unpaid municipal accounts.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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