The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has denied responsibility for the alleged missing ₦128 billion in the electricity sector, saying the funds in question predated his appointment as minister. Adelabu was responding to claims and demands by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) for explanations over the alleged unaccounted sum.

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In a statement on Monday, the minister clarified that he assumed office long after the period referenced in SERAP’s allegations, stressing that it would be misleading to link him to financial activities that occurred before his tenure. He urged the public to pay attention to timelines and official records when assessing such claims.

Adelabu further noted that since assuming office, his focus has been on stabilising the power sector, improving electricity supply, and strengthening transparency and accountability within the ministry and its agencies. He said ongoing reforms were aimed at addressing long-standing structural and financial challenges inherited from previous administrations.

The minister also reaffirmed his commitment to cooperating with relevant oversight bodies and anti-corruption agencies, adding that any investigation into past financial dealings should be directed at those in charge at the time the transactions were made.