Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has rejected claims linking him to the controversial ₦128 billion flagged in the country’s electricity sector, clarifying that the financial discrepancies occurred before he assumed office. He emphasized that the audit report being referenced relates to an earlier administration and therefore does not reflect his period of leadership.
The minister’s response followed public pressure from the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), which urged Bola Tinubu to direct relevant authorities, including the Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi, to examine the alleged irregularities involving the Ministry of Power and Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc. The advocacy group believes the matter requires urgent attention to ensure accountability and protect public resources.
Through his media aide, Bolaji Tunji, Adelabu dismissed attempts to associate him with the financial concerns, describing such claims as unfounded assumptions rooted in outdated records. He noted that the audit findings in question cover the 2022 fiscal year, whereas he only began his role as minister in August 2023. According to him, the financial matters being debated belong entirely to a previous timeframe and cannot be attributed to his stewardship.
He nonetheless expressed openness toward transparency measures, stating that his office would not obstruct any lawful review process. He stressed that credible investigations into historical issues are welcome, especially if they contribute to restoring confidence in the power sector. At the same time, he reiterated that his primary focus remains improving electricity delivery and ensuring better service for Nigerians.
Adelabu’s statement also underscored his personal and professional track record, portraying him as someone committed to ethical conduct and due diligence. He made it clear that preserving integrity in public office remains a key priority, while also supporting legitimate efforts aimed at uncovering the truth behind past financial management concerns.
Meanwhile, SERAP outlined several audit observations that prompted its call for investigation. Among the financial concerns cited were large payments made without sufficient evidence of project execution, including billions allocated to infrastructure initiatives such as the Mambilla, Zungeru, and Kashimbilla power projects without proper documentation. The report also mentioned millions spent on foreign travel lacking formal approval, consultancy payments for services allegedly not performed, and irregular advances exceeding permitted limits.
Additional scrutiny was directed at transactions within NBET, where questions were raised over contract awards, unexplained financial transfers, and procurement procedures that may not have followed established rules. SERAP argued that recovering any mismanaged funds could help ease Nigeria’s fiscal pressures, including reducing budget deficits and addressing national debt challenges.
The organization further pointed out that unresolved corruption issues have contributed significantly to the country’s ongoing electricity shortages. It emphasized that ensuring accountability could play a critical role in strengthening governance and improving power supply reliability. SERAP maintained that Nigerians deserve answers and transparency, given the scale of public funds involved and the sector’s importance to national development.
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