EFCC Arrests Energy Commission DG Mustapha Abdullahi Over Alleged N500 Billion Money Laundering
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Mustapha Abdullahi, over an alleged N500 billion money laundering case, PulseNets learned.
Sources familiar with the development told PulseNets that Abdullahi was arrested in Abuja on Wednesday and is currently being held by the anti-graft agency as investigations continue into the alleged financial misconduct.
The arrest represents a major escalation in the EFCC’s ongoing anti-corruption crackdown targeting top public officials and politically exposed persons across Nigeria.
Although full details surrounding the allegations are still unfolding, information obtained by PulseNets indicates that the investigation centres on alleged large-scale financial impropriety, suspected diversion of public funds, and questionable transactions linked to activities under the Energy Commission of Nigeria.
Mustapha Abdullahi was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the third Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria on October 24, 2023.
Before his appointment, he reportedly served as Senior Technical Adviser to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji.
Abdullahi is also recognised as a chartered engineer and a member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), with years of experience in energy policy, engineering, and technical advisory services within Nigeria’s public sector.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Presidency nor the Energy Commission of Nigeria has released an official statement regarding the arrest.
The EFCC has also yet to issue a formal statement outlining the exact charges or legal actions expected against the embattled ECN Director-General.
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However, the development is already generating reactions within political and government circles due to Abdullahi’s strategic role in Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly at a time when the Federal Government continues to push renewable energy expansion, power sector reforms, and energy transition initiatives.
The arrest further adds to the growing list of senior government officials and political appointees currently facing corruption and financial crime investigations under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
