By Ayomide Otitoju
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has clarified that the alleged ₦128 billion in missing public funds referenced by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) occurred before his appointment.
SERAP had urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), along with relevant anti-corruption agencies, to investigate claims that funds were missing or diverted from the Ministry of Power and the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET).
In response, a statement from Adelabu’s Media Aide, Bolaji Tunji, noted that the audit report cited by SERAP pertains solely to the 2022 financial year, prior to the current administration and the Minister’s appointment in August 2023.
The statement read in part: “While the Honourable Minister of Power has no objection to calls for investigation, it is important to clearly state that he was appointed in August 2023, whereas the audit report in question relates to the 2022 financial year. Consequently, the issues raised pertain entirely to a period before the Minister’s tenure.”
The Ministry emphasised its commitment to transparency and accountability, pledging full cooperation with any legitimate investigation into legacy issues while continuing to focus on delivering stable and reliable electricity to Nigerians.
Adelabu’s office also highlighted the Minister’s reputation for probity and strict adherence to due process, noting that he remains resolute in maintaining transparency and accountability in the power sector.
