The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, has denied reports alleging that he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over an ongoing investigation.
Abdullahi clarified on Wednesday that he only honoured an invitation from the anti-graft agency in line with due process and respect for constituted authorities.
In a statement issued in Abuja by his media aide, Abdulrasaq Danjuma, the ECN boss urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation and unverified claims capable of creating unnecessary tension.
“It is important to clarify that he was not arrested, but attended the engagement voluntarily as a responsible public servant committed to transparency and accountability,” the statement read.
The statement appealed to supporters, associates and stakeholders to remain calm while relevant authorities carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
According to the ECN DG, the issues currently circulating in the public domain remain allegations that are subject to investigation and due legal process.
“It is also important to emphasise that the matters currently in the public domain remain allegations subject to investigation and due legal process.
“In line with established principles of justice and fairness, every individual is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise by a court of competent jurisdiction,” the statement added.
The clarification followed reports on Wednesday night claiming that Abdullahi had been arrested and detained by the EFCC over alleged money laundering involving about N500bn.
A source within the anti-graft agency had reportedly alleged that the commission was investigating financial transactions linked to the Energy Commission of Nigeria.
However, efforts to obtain official confirmation from the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
