Power minister denies mansion scandal, says built before appointment

DDM News

(DDM) – Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has strongly refuted allegations that he built a lavish mansion within two years of his appointment, dismissing the claims as false and malicious.

The controversy began after a viral video alleged that Adelabu was showcasing wealth acquired through corrupt means, citing the new mansion as proof.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Femi Awogboro, the Minister described the report as a calculated attempt to damage his reputation and mislead the public.

Adelabu clarified that the construction of the property commenced in November 2021 and was completed by August 2023, one month before he was appointed Minister of Power in September 2023.

He backed his claims with dated photographs showing the building process, official construction permits, and relevant correspondence.

According to Adelabu, he has been a long-standing investor in real estate, agriculture, and hospitality, with well-known projects in Ibadan, Oyo State, and other locations across Nigeria.

He explained that the house was completed before his appointment but that he only moved in this year due to his work schedule and other timing factors.

The Minister said public attention was drawn to the property after a viral video showed him hosting popular Fuji musician Alhaji Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, following the campaign flag-off for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election.

Adelabu added that he has lived in the same location since 2010, when he built and publicly unveiled the original structure while serving as a senior banking and finance executive.

The new property, he stressed, was simply a redevelopment of the old house, carried out 12 years later to meet the demands of his growing political responsibilities.

He further highlighted that his investments in hospitality and real estate have created significant employment opportunities within and outside Oyo State.

Adelabu described the allegations by Sahara Reporters as baseless and an attempt to discredit him and undermine the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He urged the media outlet responsible for the publication to retract the report, warning that continued circulation of false claims could lead to legal action.

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