Groups shelve protest against REA MD

The Centre for Promotion of Human Rights in Africa (CPHR) says it has called off its proposed protest against the MD/ CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad.

The centre, in a statement signed by Edward Abakpa, said the decision was made after a thorough and in-debt assessment of the activities of the REA under Ahmad.

Recall that the Centre for Promotion of Human Rights in Africa alongside 100 other civil society groups had announced a peaceful walk over alleged breach of public office and corruption.

The protest was scheduled to hold at the Defence House, residence of President-elect Bola Tinubu to demand Ahmad’s dismissal.

However, the groups have passed a vote of confidence on the REA boss, adding that he is innocent of all accusations.

According to Abakpa, Ahmad is the victim of his success in the last three years, noting that disgruntled elements who have been unable to manipulate him have now resorted to blackmail.

He said allegations of contract fraud, ownership of private properties, and ownership of multiple bank accounts linked to the MD are all false and unsubstantiated.

The coalition described the REA as a law-abiding agency whose activities including procurement and award of contracts are done by due process.

It added that Ahmad has bequeathed efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the operations of the REA.

Outlining some of the many achievements of the REA under Ahmad, Abakpa said the agency has electrified over 1.2 million households and provided electricity for over six million Nigerians through its capital projects.

He added that the REA is also implementing programs from the Rural Electrification Fund, Education Energising Program, and Grid Extension among others.

Abakpa said the agency has also initiated and completed several solar projects across the nation keeping with its mandate to provide all rural dwellers access to reliable and affordable power.

The Centre, therefore, advised enemies of Nigeria against the progress of the REA and its MD to quit the campaign of calumny.

Abakpa further called on the incoming administration to reward Ahmad’s extraordinary performance with another term.

He, however, urged Nigerians to support Ahmad to continue to trail the blaze at the REA.