The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, has denied reports claiming he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria, Abdullahi clarified that he merely honoured an invitation from the anti-graft agency and was not taken into custody.
The statement, signed by his Media Aide, Alhaji Abdulrasaq Danjuma, said the DG’s appearance before the commission was in line with due process and his respect for constituted authorities.
He urged the public to refrain from speculation, misinformation, sensational comments, and the spread of unverified claims capable of distorting facts, influencing ongoing investigations, or causing unnecessary tension.
According to him, relevant agencies should be allowed to carry out their responsibilities transparently and lawfully so that the truth can emerge through due process.
“It is important to clarify that he was not arrested but voluntarily attended the engagement as a responsible public servant committed to transparency and accountability,” the statement read.
He also appealed to supporters, associates, stakeholders, and members of the public to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding while authorities continue their constitutional duties.
The statement further stressed that the issues currently circulating in the public space remain mere allegations subject to investigation and legal procedures.
“In line with the principles of justice and fairness, every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law,” he added.
Meanwhile, earlier reports by The Punch on Wednesday night quoted sources alleging that the ECN boss was being held by the EFCC.
Attempts to get comments from the commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
However, a source within the anti-graft agency, who spoke anonymously because he was not authorised to comment publicly, alleged that the investigation involves funds estimated at about N500bn.
