By Aliu Joshua
The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, and three executive directors have been suspended indefinitely by President Bola Tinubu. The suspension is a result of allegations of misappropriating N1.2 billion over the past two years.
The suspended executive directors are Olaniyi Netufo, Executive Director, Corporate Services; Barka Sajou, Executive Director, Technical Services; and Sa’adatu Balgore, Executive Director, Rural Electrification Fund (REF).
President Tinubu has ordered a wider investigation into the conduct of the suspended officials and has appointed new officials to head the agency in acting capacity. The new appointees include Abba Abubakar Aliyu, Managing Director/CEO; Ayoade Gboyega, Executive Director, Corporate Services; Umar Abdullahi Umar, Executive Director, Technical Services; Doris Uboh, Executive Director, Rural Electrification Fund (REF); and Olufemi Akinyelure, Head of Project Management Unit, Nigeria Electrification Project.
In a related development, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arraigned Mr. Netufo Olaniyi Alaba, the suspended Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), and Mr. Hassan Arivi Saddiq, Managing Director, Hassino Group Limited, for their alleged involvement in a N15 million contract fraud.
The suspension of the REA officials and the arraignment of the suspects by the ICPC are clear indications of the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring accountability in the management of public funds.
In conclusion, the suspension of the REA officials and the arraignment of the suspects by the ICPC are welcome developments that demonstrate the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The investigations into the alleged misappropriation of N1.2 billion and the N15 million contract fraud must be thorough and transparent, and those found guilty must be held accountable.
