The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has claimed Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu insisted on the review of the issues that influenced its response to the corruption allegation against its staff.
This was contained in the rejoinder against an online publication, which REA Director of Promotions, Mr. Muntari Ibrahim issued in Abuja at the weekend.
According to him, the agency’s silence on the allegation was to deliberately focus on doing the right thing.
The rejoinder noted that REA has closely collaborated with the Ministry, National Assembly, anti-corruption agencies, and process organizations to initiate further reforms within REA, despite numerous obstacles.
“While the Agency may have maintained silence, it was not due to a lack of information but rather a deliberate effort to focus on the right processes, personnel, and a culture that prioritizes doing what is right.
“Over the past few months, we have collaborated closely with the Ministry, National Assembly, anti-corruption agencies, and process organizations to initiate further reforms within REA, despite numerous obstacles.
” The Honourable Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo A. Adelabu directed a thorough committee review of the relevant issues that have influenced the Agency’s response to the alleged situation,” the agency stressed.
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The statement said the agency can confirm that recent publications accurately reflect that some members of staff have been redeployed, suspended or are under investigation due to process deficiencies and a prevalent lack of accountability.
It further noted that the most significant change is the redeployment of the Director of the Funds and Accounts Department – a seconded officer from the Office of the Accountant General.
The allegation leveled against the then Director, said the rejoinder, is undergoing investigation by the anti-graft authorities including the core REA staff alleged to be involved.
The REA statement insisted that article to which it reacted marks a significant step forward, as it demonstrates the agency’s commitment to accountability.
According to the rejoinder, the REA under the watch of of the Managing Director, Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad has from 2020 to date provided power to over 7.5 million people including 1 .5
million households, delivering 130 Mini-Grid Projects, including 1 .3 million standalone
home systems.
Continuing in its stocktaking, the statement said the agency has equally deployed over 1 ,650km of solar streetlights, improving power,
security, and economic growth in rural areas.
It said REA completed 1 ,403 projects under the capital budget, delivering solar streetlights,
mini-grid projects, standalone home systems, and grid extension works.