Alleged Missing ₦128bn Predates My Tenure, Adelabu Tells SERAP

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has denied responsibility for the alleged disappearance of ₦128 billion linked to the ministry, insisting that the funds in question were expended before his appointment into office. Adelabu made the clarification in response to allegations raised by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), which had called for explanations over the reported missing sum.

In a statement issued on Monday, the minister said the allegation, as presented, creates a misleading impression and unfairly associates him with financial activities that occurred prior to his assumption of duty. He stressed that he only took over the leadership of the Ministry of Power after the period referenced in SERAP’s claims and therefore could not be held accountable for transactions carried out before his tenure.

Adelabu explained that upon assumption of office, his administration met existing financial commitments, inherited projects, and ongoing contractual obligations that were approved and executed under previous leadership. According to him, the ₦128 billion cited by SERAP relates to legacy expenditures and budgetary releases that predate his appointment as minister.

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He further noted that records within the ministry clearly indicate timelines for approvals, disbursements, and project implementation, all of which can be independently verified by relevant oversight institutions. The minister said he has consistently supported transparency and accountability and would not obstruct any lawful investigation into the matter.

Adelabu also urged SERAP and other civil society organisations to direct their inquiries appropriately and rely on accurate timelines to avoid misinforming the public. He maintained that while public scrutiny is necessary in a democracy, allegations must be grounded in facts to preserve public trust and institutional credibility.

The minister reaffirmed his commitment to reforms in the power sector, stating that his priority since assuming office has been to stabilise electricity supply, improve generation and transmission capacity, and address longstanding structural challenges affecting the sector. He said these efforts require cooperation among stakeholders and a focus on current policy execution rather than recycled controversies.

SERAP had earlier raised concerns over the alleged missing ₦128 billion and called on the federal government to provide explanations, citing the need for accountability in the management of public funds. The organisation is known for its advocacy on transparency and good governance.

Adelabu concluded by assuring Nigerians that the Ministry of Power under his leadership operates with due process and remains open to scrutiny by anti-corruption agencies, the National Assembly, and the Auditor-General of the Federation, adding that he welcomes any review that clarifies the facts and puts the record straight.