Alwan Hassan apologises to Akpabio and Jibrin over $10m bribery claim

A former Special Adviser to ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Alwan Hassan, has publicly apologised to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin for accusing them of receiving a $10 million bribe.

Hassan claimed the bribe was allegedly paid to stall the confirmation of President Bola Tinubu’s nominee for Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Abdullahi Ramat.

Hassan’s apology comes after the Senate threatened to take him to court over the allegations.

He explained that his actions were driven by passion and frustration while lobbying for Ramat’s confirmation.

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According to Hassan, Ramat was screened and strongly recommended by the Senate Committee on Power, but his name suddenly disappeared from the Order Paper, sparking speculation.

During a press conference, Hassan retracted his statement, admitting it was based on “misleading conversations and false assumptions.”

He stated, “I also referenced a claim alleging that they received $10 million in bribes to stall Ramat’s confirmation. That allegation came from conversations I had while trying to understand the issues. I have since come to realise that the claim was not only untrue but also unfair and uncharitable to both the National Assembly and its leadership.”

The Senate maintains that Ramat’s confirmation was stepped down due to public and private complaints, not bribery.

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Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu described Hassan as “one innocuous Alwan Hassan” acting as a proxy for the nominee and insisted that the Senate would still require Hassan to provide evidence in court.

Ramat’s confirmation remains on hold as the Senate continues reviewing petitions and complaints against him.

It’s unclear whether the Senate will accept Hassan’s apology or proceed with legal action.