The Minister for Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has responded to allegations of missing public funds, emphasizing that the issues predate his appointment. The Socio‑Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) had called on President Bola Tinubu to order an investigation into the alleged diversion of over ₦128 billion from the Ministry of Power and the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET).
According to a statement from Adelabu’s media aide, Bolaji Tunji, the audit report on which SERAP based its request concerns only the 2022 financial year—a period that falls before the current administration and before Adelabu’s appointment in August 2023. The Ministry of Power clarified that it does not object to calls for an investigation, but stressed that the present administration is not implicated in the alleged diversion of funds.
The Office of the Honourable Minister reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability and pledged full cooperation with any legitimate process aimed at addressing legacy issues in the power sector. The current Minister of Power is widely regarded for his strict adherence to due process, probity, transparency, and accountability, as demonstrated in his previous public‑ and private‑sector roles.
The Ministry remains focused on its mandate of delivering stable and reliable electricity to all Nigerians. SERAP’s call for investigation seeks to ensure that those responsible for the alleged diversion are held accountable. The Nigerian government continues to work on combating corruption and enhancing transparency in the management of public funds. The investigation will determine the extent of the issue and identify those responsible, highlighting the need for accountability in public‑fund management.
The outcome of the inquiry will be closely watched, as it will help build trust in the government’s anti‑corruption efforts and ensure that public resources are used for the benefit of all Nigerians.
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