Senate Denies $10 Million Bribery Allegation Over Delay in NERC Chairman Confirmation

• The Nigerian Senate has refuted claims that it received $10 million bribe to delay the screening and confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat.

The Senate has strongly denied allegations that it was bribed with $10 million to stall the confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

The claim originated from Alwan Hassan, a former Special Adviser to ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who alleged that the 10th Senate, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, deliberately frustrated Ramat’s nomination after receiving kickbacks.

In a swift reaction, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, dismissed the bribery allegation as “baseless and unfounded.” He explained that the Senate’s decision to step down Ramat’s confirmation was guided by petitions and public complaints lodged against the nominee.

“Many nominees have been delayed or stepped down due to public outcry. This case is no different,” Adaramodu stated in a press release issued in Abuja on Friday.

The Senate’s statement clarified that Ramat’s nomination had “a baggage of public and private complaints,” emphasizing that the National Assembly has a legal obligation to investigate and consider all issues raised against nominees before confirmation.

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“No individual can drag the Senate into disrepute through unfounded allegations or attempt to arm-twist the legislature. Nigerians deserve nominees who undergo thorough, transparent screening,” the statement added.

The upper chamber also accused Mr. Hassan of being “politically aligned” with Ramat and attempting to manipulate public opinion with falsehoods.

The Senate hinted that it may seek legal redress against Hassan, compelling him to produce evidence to substantiate his bribery claims.

“The legislature respects citizens’ opinions but remains committed to due process, transparency, and legislative oversight,” the statement concluded.

The controversy comes as the Tinubu administration continues to face scrutiny over key regulatory appointments in the energy and power sectors, including leadership at the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and related agencies.