Simbi Wabote, the former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), has denied reports claiming that he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the NCDMB’s investment in a modular refinery project
According to the Guardian, the project led by Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited, is aimed at developing a refinery on Brass Island, Bayelsa State.
In a statement shared with journalists, Wabote clarified that he was not arrested but had responded to a routine invitation from the EFCC. He explained that he arrived at the EFCC’s office at 2 PM on Tuesday and left by 6:30 PM after providing his statement.
“I honoured the EFCC’s invitation, just as any responsible person would,” Wabote said. “I was supposed to report on October 29, but I informed them of my travel plans and agreed to report upon my return. I went in, wrote my statement, and was home by evening.”
Wabote further clarified that the EFCC’s interest in the Atlantic International Refinery project was related to the company’s cash flow issues, not fraud or misconduct. He refuted claims that the NCDMB made a poor investment under his leadership, noting that the board had invested in 17 different projects, with the Atlantic refinery project being the only one experiencing delays.
“The promoter of the Atlantic project has encountered cash flow challenges and has communicated his intent to resolve the issue. He has even offered to buy out the NCDMB’s investment if necessary,” Wabote explained, stressing that the situation was a business challenge, not a fraudulent scheme.
He also expressed disappointment over what he described as “irresponsible media reports” aimed at tarnishing his reputation and urged journalists to ensure accuracy and avoid spreading unverified information.
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