The House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy has formally summoned Abba Aliyu, the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), and Olufemi Akinyelure, the Head of the Nigeria Electrification Programme (NEP), after their ongoing absence from committee sessions.
This action comes as part of an inquiry into the handling of grants, loans, and investments in the renewable energy sector in Nigeria from 2015 to 2024, with a specific focus on fund allocation, project execution, and adherence to financial regulations.
During the committee's meeting on Tuesday, Afam Ogene, the committee chairman, expressed his discontent over the leadership's continuous disregard for compliance with the committee’s requests.
“The MD of the Rural Electrification Agency seems to be evading his duty to appear before us, and he will not find it easy to escape repercussions,” Ogene stated.
He further clarified that "the Constitution empowers this committee to mandate attendance. Yet, as a show of clemency, we extend a final invitation for them to present themselves on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 2 p.m.; otherwise, we will have no other choice than to initiate an arrest warrant.”
Ogene underscored that this scrutiny is part of the National Assembly’s constitutional functions aimed at ensuring transparency and effective management of both public and donor finances, particularly in renewable energy, which is vital for rural development and the country's economic growth.
The panel had previously granted a 24-hour deadline to Mr. Aliyu to justify the agency’s financial dealings regarding loans and grants after a request from Paul Kalejaiye (APC, Lagos) during a public hearing, also recommending the Inspector-General of Police to ensure compliance if Mr. Aliyu does not respond.
Shina Oyedeji (PDP, Oyo) noted that the ultimatum arose due to Mr. Aliyu's continual failure to comply with earlier invitations.
“This session was another opportunity for the managing director to fulfil his obligation, yet he neglected to show up or designate a representative,” remarked Mr. Oyedeji.
Tensions have also surfaced among House members over which committee has the primary oversight role concerning the REA. In a letter dated February 27, Muhammad Bukar, the Chairman of the Rural Electrification Committee stated his committee holds the primary oversight over the REA’s operations, including financial dealings and project management.
The letter affirmed that while the Renewable Energy Committee holds a broad mandate, specific operational and financial matters involving the REA should strictly be addressed through the Rural Electrification Committee to prevent bureaucratic overlaps and disputes.
Bukar cautioned against any uncoordinated inquiries which could disrupt institutional harmony and generate unnecessary conflicts, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order within the expanded framework of House Committees, now exceeding 120 specialized panels.
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