The Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC), simply known as Ikeja Electric, on Thursday faced backlash from Nigerians after posting a Christmas goodwill message on X (formerly Twitter) amid nationwide power outages.

The power distribution company shared a festive post accompanied by an image of a fully lit Christmas tree.

The message read, “At Ikeja Electric, we’re delighted to light up your homes, your celebrations, and your hearts this Christmas. Here’s wishing you and your family a season filled with bright moments, joyful tunes and warm connections. Merry Christmas from the entire team at Ikeja Electric.”

The post came at a time when many Nigerians were experiencing electricity shortages as Distribution Companies (DisCos) ration electricity for customers across the country, blaming a drop in power generation.

Tribune Online reports that large parts of the country were left without power on Christmas Day following a nationwide drop in electricity supply.

According to the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), which manages the national grid, the decline in supply was caused by an explosion on the Escravos–Lagos Gas Pipeline in Delta State.

In the comment section of IKEDC’s post, several users questioned the timing and tone of the message. One X user, Eniola Daniel, wrote, “where is the light???”

Another commenter, Mz Angelo Lopez, said, “On a day like this u guys still interrupted our supply since 6:30am. Wht re u lighting up gan na? No supply at Bakare/Ibrahim Orioolowo/Aminu/Kazeem/Oriola str Alapere as we speak. On a Christmas day.”

King Myke commented, “Light when una suppose give us, una use am dey power tree. Well done.”

Others responded with sarcasm. Segun Jac wrote, “Na generator you take power this tree or inverter,” while Sam Tomoloju added, “It would have been nice if there was actually power supply.”

More Nigerians also trooped to the comment section to share heir frustration. Makel said, “Where is the light to light up our homes. Please the residents of Jakande Gate have not had light in more than a week now. No water, phones are dead. So how are we going to play and listen to the joyful tunes? Come around and check the connections oh.”

Another user, Big Jay, wrote, “You guys didn’t do anything. Nah darkness and heat person dey here.”

As of now, IKEDC has not officially responded to the backlash from the netizens. (Nigerian Tribune)