“Power Generators Face Court Delay in N140bn Suit: A Battle for the Grid”

The Federal High Court 2, Minna, has adjourned a N140 billion ground rent suit filed against North-South Power Company Limited and the Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited.

The suit was instituted by Niger State Internal Revenue Service in January, and the state government is asking the court to compel the companies to pay their outstanding ground rent of N140 billion, which accumulated between 2017 and 2022.

In the writ of summons, the revenue service listed Shiroro Hydro Electric Plc, North South Power Company Ltd, and Kainji Hydro Electric Plc, Mainstream Energy Solutions as defendants.

Also listed as defendants were the Federal Ministry of Power and Nigeria Electricity Liability Management Limited.

The case was adjourned by Judge Justice Abdullahi Dan-Ige to March 11, 2024, to allow all parties in the matters to file and exchange court processes.

This case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding power generating companies in Nigeria and the need for a resolution to ensure the country’s energy needs are met.