No Arrest For Wabote: Ex-NCDMB Boss Explains EFCC Visit

No Arrest For Wabote: Ex-NCDMB Boss Explains EFCC Visit

The former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Simbi Wabote, has denied rumors that he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with the NCDMB’s investment in a modular refinery project by...CONTINUE READING…

Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited, located on Brass Island, Bayelsa State.

In a phone interview with journalists on Wednesday, Wabote clarified that his visit to the EFCC on Tuesday was a routine matter and not an arrest. He explained, “I was initially scheduled to visit on October 29, but due to travel plans, I rescheduled. I went in yesterday, gave my statement, and left by 6:30 pm.”

Wabote also dismissed accusations of fraudulent investment in the Atlantic International Refinery, attributing the project’s difficulties to cash flow problems rather than any financial misconduct. He noted that the refinery’s promoter had offered to buy out NCDMB’s stake if the board decided not to proceed with the project.

During his tenure, Wabote mentioned that NCDMB had invested in 17 projects, most of which were progressing successfully. He emphasized that the Atlantic refinery was the only one facing challenges, but reassured that it was a business issue, not a case of fraud.

Wabote expressed frustration over the spread of false reports, saying, “It’s unfortunate that certain media outlets are fabricating such stories to damage someone’s reputation.”