CSOs express concern as power outage leads to loss of lives in Katsina hospitals 

The Coalition of the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Katsina State has expressed deep concern over how the power outage in Nigeria have led to loss of lives in Katsina hospitals.

The Chairman of the coalition, Mr. AbdulRahman Abdullahi, revealed this in a statement issued in Katsina on Sunday.

According to the CSOs, the devastating power outage has resulted in the loss of lives in hospitals.

“The society demands accountability and urgent action from authorities to address the electrical infrastructure and ensure patient safety.”

He emphasized that “the disruption in electricity supply has severely compromised access to essential healthcare services, resulting in the unfortunate and preventable loss of lives on a daily basis.”

Abdullahi lamented, “electricity is a lifeline and its absence has brought a range of dire repercussions.”

“The recent national grid failure has resulted in an extended power outage, imposing severe difficulties on a vast number of individuals, commercial enterprises, and essential services.”

“The power outage has necessitated the closure of multiple businesses dependent on reliable electricity, causing considerable economic hardship and jeopardizing livelihoods.”

“In the past eight days of this power outage, we have experienced the devastating effects on our communities as the negative impacts continue to escalate.”

“It is alarming that, despite the magnitude of the crisis, there has been minimal communication from the relevant authorities concerning a potential resolution timeframe.”

“It appears that individuals in positions of authority remain unaffected, largely due to their access to private generators and solar systems at their residences and workplaces, creating a perception of detachment.”

“The widening gap in access to essential services only serves to intensify the sense of frustration among ordinary citizens, who bear the full weight of this crisis,” Mr. Abdullahi stated.

He emphasized the need for the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to improve its communication by providing regular updates and a comprehensive progress report on the repair status.

“As a vital national entity with substantial financial and material capabilities, the TCN bears the responsibility to expeditiously address this crisis and maintain transparent communication with the impacted regions.”

“The prolonged lack of communication and action is unacceptable and lacks justification.”

The coalition implores the relevant authorities to treat this crisis with the seriousness and urgency that its severity warrants.

Abdullahi emphasized that a coordinated and expedited response is vital to provide timely relief to affected communities.”

He urged the TCN to take ownership of the power outage crisis and provide daily progress updates to Nigerians until the issue is fully resolved.

“The coalition demands swift and sustained measures to address the hardship caused by the power outage, upholding principles of transparency and accountability, Daily Nigerian reported.

Know more about the CSOs

The Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are independent, non-governmental entities that operate to promote social, economic, and political change.

Types of CSOs

Under the CSOs, we have Non-profit organizations (NPOs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Community Based Organizations (CBOs), advocacy groups, charities, foundations and volunteer organizations.

Focus Areas of CSOs

They focus on human rights, environment, health, educatio, poverty reduction, gender equality, good governance, conflict resolution, and economic development.

Roles of CSOs

They play the roles of advocacy and policy influence, community development, service delivery, research and analysis, capacity building, and networking and collaboration.

Characteristics

These organizations are characterized by independence from government, non-profit motive, volunteer-based, community-driven, and transparency and accountability.

Benefits

The civil society entities promote social justice, empower marginalized communities, hold governments accountable, provide essential services, and foster community engagement.

Challenges

The organizations face funding constraints, government restrictions, limited capacity, corruption, and public mistrust.

Examples of CSOs

Amnesty International, Red Cross, Oxfam, Save the Children, World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Doctors Without Borders (MSF), and Human Rights Watch are all examples of CSOs.

Key Players

The major key players of CSOs are International organizations (e.g., UN, EU), governments, private sector, philanthropic organizations, and community leaders.

Regulations

The CSOs are governed by national laws and regulations, international treaties and conventions, financial reporting requirements, and registration and licensing.

Funding Sources

The organizations get its funding from donations, grants, government funding, corporate sponsorships, and membership fees.

Upcoming events

The World Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) Day is on February 27th, 2025.

International Civil Society Week in April, United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in July.

Global Summit on Civil Society in October and International Conference on Non-Profit Organizations (ICNPO) in November.

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