The ghost worker scandal rocking Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) took a darker turn when evidence emerged of a cover-up, orchestrated by key figures within the company.
It was gathered that Dr. Tinuade Sanda, in her capacity as MD/CEO, took decisive action on 22nd November 2023, by issuing a “Demand for Explanation” to all the key officers of the organisation.
This followed her discovery of a series of fraudulent activities, including ghost workers, unauthorized salary increments, and breaches of company policy that amounted to a significant financial misappropriation exceeding N61 million.
Despite Dr. Sanda’s efforts to uphold integrity and accountability by notifying the board of these serious infractions, a media report revealed a deliberate attempt to obscure the truth, despite the mounting evidence and the implications for the company.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) stepped in, issuing a directive to redeploy all management staff associated with West Power & Gas (WPG) to address the corruption and restore ethical governance within EKEDC.
However, in a move that contradicted NERC’s intentions and further exposed the extent of the cover-up, a relief letter was issued to Dr. Tinuade Sanda, the very individual who had taken steps to expose and rectify the corruption within the organization.
This action not only undermines the regulatory efforts of NERC but also raises serious concerns about the commitment of EKEDC’s leadership to combatting corruption and ensuring the company operates with the highest standards of transparency and accountability.
Insiders say the unfolding events call for a more rigorous investigation and demand accountability from all involved in the cover-up to restore trust and integrity in EKEDC’s operations.