Abuja: The House of Representatives Sub-Committee on the Protection of Critical National Assets has dismissed the corruption allegations petition against the Nigerian Electricity Liability Management Company (NELMCO) filed by the Association for Public Policy Analysis (APPA). The dismissal follows a comprehensive investigation into the claims.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the association, a Civil Society Organisation led by its President, Princewill Okorie, had accused NELMCO of fund misappropriation and questionable operations, along with other allegations. APPA also questioned the continued existence of NELMCO 12 years after the privatisation of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria.
During the resumed public hearing, Rep. Dabo Ismail, Chairman of the Committee, stated that the panel took the allegations seriously and launched an investigation to uncover the truth. Findings revealed that NELMCO's existence is supported by the provisions of the Nigerian Electricity Act, 2023.
Ismail clarified that NELMCO should not have ceased operations in 2017 following the privatisation, as it assumed responsibility for the assets and liabilities of the PHCN and its successor companies. NELMCO provided documentation in compliance with the Nigerian Electricity Act 2023.
Addressing the allegation of spending N94 million on a five-day retreat in Lagos, NELMCO's Managing Director, Mojoyinoluwa Dekalu-Thomas, refuted the claim as false. Dekalu-Thomas indicated a willingness to provide evidence of the expenses incurred, including documentation of the event attended by dignitaries such as the Director-General of the Debt Management Office and the Minister of Power.
Dekalu-Thomas explained that the expenditures covered flights, logistics, food, and accommodation, totaling N94 million. The retreat spanned five days, with multiple facilitators and high-profile attendees.
Rep. Ismail justified the N94 million expense, citing the presence of significant dignitaries. Committee member Mr. Billy Osawaru confirmed that the funds were appropriated, suggesting no further deliberation was necessary.
The committee received all relevant documents related to the retreat and dismissed additional claims, including the alleged purchase of an office in the North. The committee encouraged the petitioner to present any future findings, assuring that all petitions would be addressed in the interest of Nigerians.