Former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio has been summoned for questioning by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with an investigation into corruption allegations leveled against him.
This comes on the heels of reports that President-elect Bola Tinubu has endorsed him for the position of 10th Senate President.
Punch reports that allegations of a N40 billion fraud were leveled against Akpabio’s leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission.
In 2022, the National Assembly resolved to investigate the NDDC Interim Management Committee’s alleged N40 billion financial irresponsibility.
In addition, the EFCC was investigating allegations of over N86 billion contract scams involving the senator-elect and a former Acting Managing Director of the NDDC, Prof Kemebradikumo Pondei.
Akpabio was previously arrested by the anti-graft agency for allegedly stealing N108.1 billion in Akwa Ibom funds.
The EFCC had previously summoned Akpabio for questioning on March 29, but his lawyer, Umeh Kalu (SAN), claimed that his client was suffering from pneumonia and cardiac arrhythmia in a letter to the anti-graft agency.
While pleading with the EFCC to reschedule the questioning, Kalu stated that Akpabio would be unable to attend the March 29 interview due to alleged health issues.
He also stated that the Senator-elect had already scheduled medical appointments in other countries.
Kalu said;
As mentioned in our last letter to you dated February 10, 2023, our client is undergoing treatment for pneumonia and cardiac arrhythmia, and, has recently been advised to seek further attention abroad.
It is in the light of the above that we respectfully request that our client’s appointment with you be rescheduled to a date convenient to your officers, preferably after the forthcoming Easter and Ramadan holidays.
EFCC in a new letter dated April 13, 2023, which was received by Akpabio’s lawyers, Seasons Law Firm asked Akpabio to come to its headquarters in Abuja on May 9, 2023.
The letter titled, ‘Investigation Activities Re: Senator Godswill Akpabio’s Appointment Letter Of Invitation’ was signed by ACE II SM Ala, Head, CMU-1.
It reads;
I refer to your letter number dated March 27, 2023, on the above subject. In view of the above, you are kindly requested to inform your client Senator Godswill Akpabio to personally report for an interview with the undersigned through the Head, CMU-1 team on May 9, 2023, at the 5th Floor, EFCC Headquarters Plot 301/302 Institutions and Research District. Jabi, Abuja at 10:00 am.
