Dr Akinwunmi Adesina
ABIDJAN, Aug 28 (NNN-AGENCIES) — Nigerian banker Akinwumi Adesina has been re-elected chairman of the African Development Bank (AfDB) after weathering a political storm over allegations of corruption.
Adesina ran unopposed and gained 100% of votes cast at the AfDB’s annual meeting, held via video link, to secure a second term, a statement by the bank said.
His re-election came after an independent panel last month upheld a decision of the AfDB’s ethics committee to clear him of all charges.
The panel’s decision was seen as a rebuff to US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who pushed for a review of the ethics committee’s decision.
Whistleblowers had accused the Nigerian of giving contracts to friends and appointing relatives at the bank.
Adesina denied all wrongdoing.
A charismatic speaker, who is known for his elegant suits and bow ties, he has led the bank since 2015.
President Muhammadu Buhari’s Personal Assistant on Social Media, Lauretta Onochie confirmed the development while congratulating Adesina on her Twitter page.
Onochie wrote, “Our very own Akinwumi Akin Adesina has been reaffirmed as the President of the African Development Bank.
“Thank you to our supportive President @MBuhari who mobilized support for our own Adesina and why not! Adesina has been proven to be above boards.” — NNN-AGENCIES
