Ex-NCDMB boss, Wabote, denies EFCC arrest
The former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Simbi Wabote has refuted reports claiming he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over NCDMB’s investment in a modular refinery project.
The project, led by Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited, was designed to develop a refinery on Brass Island, Bayelsa State.
Clarifying the issues yesterday, in a chat shared with journalists, Wabote said he was not arrested but had instead responded to a routine invitation from the EFCC.
According to Wabote, he arrived at the EFCC’s office around 2 PM on Tuesday and left by 6:30 PM after providing his statement.
“I honoured the EFCC’s invitation just like any responsible person would,” Wabote said. “I was supposed to go on the 29th of October, but I informed them I was traveling and would report upon my return. I went in, wrote my statement, and was home by evening.”
Wabote also clarified that the EFCC’s interest in Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited stemmed from cash flow challenges faced by the company, not fraud or misconduct.
He dismissed allegations that the NCDMB made a poor investment under his leadership, explaining that the board had strategically invested in 17 different projects, with the Atlantic refinery project being the only one experiencing delays.
“The Atlantic project promoter has encountered cash flow issues and communicated to the NCDMB his intention to resolve the matter. He’s even offered to buy out NCDMB’s investment if necessary,” Wabote explained, emphasising that the project’s challenges do not constitute fraud. “This is simply a business dealing with financial constraints, not a scam or fraudulent scheme.”
Wabote expressed disappointment over what he termed as “irresponsible media reports” aimed at damaging his reputation.
He urged journalists to prioritise accuracy and refrain from spreading unverified information.
