Sumaila Abdul-Akaba’s tenure as the Sole Administrator of Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited has come to an end following a probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). His resignation follows allegations of mismanagement that have plagued his seven-year administration.
According to information obtained by SaharaReporters, the company circulated an internal memo indicating that Abdul-Akaba’s term had concluded. However, sources suggest that the EFCC investigation effectively forced his resignation rather than a voluntary departure.
The memo, dated October 14, 2024, from the Head of General Administration, Mr. Ahmed S.A., stated that Abdul-Akaba’s departure was simply the result of his term’s expiration on October 10, 2024. It went on to announce that Kanwai Atungs Joseph, the most senior Engineer and General Manager of Engineering Works, would take charge of the company’s operations until a new Sole Administrator is appointed.
The memo noted, “Following the completion of the tenure of Engr. Sumaila Abdul-Akaba, FNSE on 10th October, 2024, the Ministry of Steel Development has approved that Engr. Kanwai Atungs Joseph oversee the affairs of the Company pending the appointment of a substantive Sole Administrator. All Heads of Departments are to inform their staff and ensure full cooperation.”
Despite the memo claiming Abdul-Akaba’s tenure ended on October 10, it appears he remained in office until October 14, raising questions about the actual circumstances of his departure.
Sources revealed that the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, has reportedly resubmitted Abdul-Akaba’s name for reappointment to the Senate Committee on Steel Development, which could contravene existing laws governing Ajaokuta Steel’s administration.
“We have credible information indicating that the Minister has sought Senate reconfirmation as the next Sole Administrator of Ajaokuta Steel Company. If the memo dated October 14 states his tenure ended on October 10, why did he remain in office until the 14th? Furthermore, there is no federal government agency whose leadership term exceeds five years,” one source commented.
Concerns have emerged that the Minister and the ministry recognized the end of Abdul-Akaba’s tenure to preempt ongoing investigations into corruption allegations.
In September, the Nigeria Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Council (NENYLC) filed a petition with anti-corruption agencies, accusing Abdul-Akaba of various corrupt practices during his leadership. The allegations included job racketeering, kickbacks, inflated contracts, and misappropriation of company funds.
The EFCC acknowledged receipt of the petition in a letter numbered EFCC/PET/HOR/2914/2024, confirming that it was received on September 4, 2024, at 03:14 PM. The petition was titled “Petition to the EFCC: Corrupt Practices and Mismanagement at Ajaokuta Steel Company.”
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