Former Nigerian energy minister jailed on corruption charges

Nigerian commission arraigns Olu Agunloye over allegations of fraud in connection with hydroelectric project

By Adam Abu-bashal

ABUJA, Nigeria (AA) - A high court in Nigeria ruled Wednesday that former Power and Steel Minister Olu Agunloye be remanded in prison for alleged fraud in connection with a $6 billion hydropower contract, local media reported.

Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought Agunloye before the Federal High Court in the capital Abuja, where he pleaded not guilty.

Judge Donatus Okorowo ordered that he be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Facility until bail conditions are met.

On Dec. 13, the EFCC announced that Agunloye was wanted over alleged corruption in connection with the Mambilla hydroelectric project in the country.

He was apprehended and taken into custody on Dec. 20.

Agunloye, who served as energy minister from 1999 to 2003, is accused of embezzling a significant portion of the funds meant for the project.

*Writing by Alperen Aktas from Istanbul

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