Reps Query Gas Supply, Launch Forensic Audit on Power Sector Irregularities

By Linda Ike

The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee investigating power sector reforms and expenditure from 2006 to 2024 has questioned the supply and use of gas to electricity generation companies (Gencos) amid allegations of irregularities.

The committee formed a seven-man sub-committee for a forensic audit of gas supplied to power plants nationwide, aiming to verify utilisation for electricity generation.

Hon. Harrison Nwadike moved the motion after an oversight visit revealed gas continued flowing to Delta State’s Sapele Power Plant despite no power output for over a year.

“Gas supplied consistently, but no electricity where is it going?” Nwadike asked, labelling it a major oversight failure demanding investigation.

Committee Chairman, Al-Mustapha Aliyu highlighted public concerns over insufficient gas supplies strangling Gencos and worsening Nigeria’s electricity shortages.
“We’ll get to the root,” he assured.

Seplat Energy Managing Director, Mrs. Ibiada Itoto denied undermining the sector, stressing commitment to reforms and contracts.

General Manager Gas, Olubukola Fasoyin disclosed Sapele owes Seplat about N20 billion, impacting operations.Complicity Concerns

Nwadike alleged possible complicity if gas supplies persist to non-generating plants, potentially an economic crime.

Aliyu voiced shock at Seplat’s alleged monitoring gaps, vowing the audit would follow evidence impartially.

Afam Ogene chairs the team, including Kafilat Ogbara, Salisu Magaji, Fuad Kayode Laguda, Harrison Nwadike, and others, to establish facts and ensure accountability.