South Africa cuts off electricity linked to Nigerian High Commission due to debt

By Elegbede Abiodun

Tshwane municipal authorities have disconnected electricity to Nigeria’s High Commission in South Africa following failure to settle outstanding utility bills.

Mayor Nasiphi Moya confirmed the cut off on Monday via social media, stating the action was part of the city’s #TshwaneYaTima initiative targeting customers with substantial unpaid debts.

“We’ve disconnected electricity at the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. They owe the city for utility services,” Moya wrote on X.

This marks at least the third time in recent years that Nigerian diplomatic facilities in South Africa have faced power disruptions over billing disputes. City Power previously disconnected the Nigerian consulate in Johannesburg in 2023 over approximately R600,000 ($35,000) in arrears, while another disconnection occurred last September.

The recurring incidents highlight ongoing tensions between the city and the diplomatic mission over municipal service payments.