By Ayo Kehinde
The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Mustapha Abdullahi, has dismissed reports alleging that he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), clarifying that he only honoured an invitation from the anti-graft agency in Abuja.
Abdullahi clarified a statement issued on Wednesday through his Media Aide, Alhaji Abdulrasaq Danjuma, following media reports linking him to an alleged money laundering investigation.
According to the statement, the ECN boss said his visit to the EFCC was voluntary and in line with due process, transparency, and respect for constituted authorities.
“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 said.
The Energy Commission chief appealed to the public to refrain from spreading speculation, misinformation, sensational commentary, and unverified claims capable of distorting facts or creating unnecessary tension.
He urged Nigerians, particularly supporters, associates, and stakeholders in the energy sector, to remain calm and allow the appropriate agencies to carry out their constitutional responsibilities without interference.
“At this time, we respectfully urge supporters, associates, stakeholders, and members of the public to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding while the appropriate authorities carry out their constitutional responsibilities,” the statement added.
Abdullahi further emphasised that the matters currently being discussed in the public domain remain allegations 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,” he stated.
The clarification follows widespread reports claiming that operatives of the EFCC had arrested the ECN Director-General over alleged financial transactions under investigation.
However, no official statement had been issued by the anti-graft agency as of the time of filing this report.
