Adebayo Adelabu clarifies audit report relates to 2022 financial year
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has clarified that the alleged missing ₦128 billion cited by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) predates his appointment, stressing that the issues occurred before his administration took office.
The statement follows SERAP’s call for President Bola Tinubu to direct the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and relevant anti-corruption agencies to investigate allegations of missing or diverted funds from the Ministry of Power and the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET).
In a statement issued by Adelabu’s media aide, Bolaji Tunji, the Ministry said the audit report in question relates solely to the 2022 financial year, prior to the current Minister’s appointment in August 2023.
“While the Honourable Minister 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,” the statement noted.
The Ministry emphasised that the call for investigation does not concern the operations or financial activities under the current administration, and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and delivering stable electricity to Nigerians.
The statement also highlighted that Minister Adelabu is known for his strict adherence to due process, probity, and accountability, as demonstrated in his previous public and private sector roles.
“The Honourable Minister remains resolute in safeguarding this reputation while cooperating fully with any legitimate process aimed at addressing legacy issues in the power sector,” the statement added.
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