The House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy has issued a stern 48-hour ultimatum to Abba Aliyu, the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), demanding a comprehensive written response to allegations of fund mismanagement. The committee has also summoned Mr. Aliyu to appear in person on March 2, 2026, or face immediate arrest by the Inspector-General of Police.
The directive was issued by the Committee Chairman, Hon. Afam Ogene, following the Managing Director’s failure to honor a previous summons on Wednesday. The committee is currently investigating the utilization of hundreds of millions of dollars in international grants and federal investments intended to bridge Nigeria’s electricity gap through renewable energy.
The investigative hearing is focused on several high-priority concerns, including:
- The management of a $550 million World Bank and African Development Bank facility, along with millions in additional grants from Germany, South Korea, and the European Union.
- Reports of “dysfunctional” solar streetlights and failed green energy installations that often deteriorate within six months of completion.
- The alleged waste of public resources and the “uncooperative tendencies” of certain agencies that have stalled investigations since June 2024.
- “Public officers must account for their stewardship, particularly given the substantial grants and public funds managed by this agency,” stated Hon. Shina Oyedeji, a member of the committee. “Our inability to account for these funds, which come from international donors, damages the integrity of Nigeria.
Hon. Shina Oyedeji, a member of the committee, stated that “Public officers must account for their stewardship, particularly given the substantial grants and public funds managed by this agency”. He further emphasized that “Our inability to account for these funds, which come from international donors, damages the integrity of Nigeria”.
The committee expressed strong displeasure after Mr. Aliyu failed to appear for the second consecutive day, despite formal invitations being acknowledged as far back as November 2025. While Gboyega Ayoade, Executive Director of Corporate Services at the REA, offered an unreserved apology and requested more time, lawmakers described the MD’s absence as “highly disrespectful” and an affront to legislative oversight.
The REA has been ordered to submit all requested documentation—including contract awards, feasibility studies, and project status reports for the Energizing Education Programme—within the 48-hour window. Should the Managing Director fail to appear on March 2, the committee has vowed to exercise its constitutional powers to issue a warrant of arrest.
