Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari testified in Paris at an arbitration hearing concerning a $6 billion power contract dispute involving Sunrise Power and Transmission Company.
The case revolves around allegations that Buhari’s administration withheld $200 million in payments for the Mambilla Hydroelectric Project.
President Bola Tinubu authorized Buhari’s participation, marking an unusual instance of a former Nigerian president engaging in international legal proceedings.
The dispute involves a contract awarded in 2006 under President Olusegun Obasanjo. Buhari’s testimony, which began Saturday and continues Sunday, addresses claims of contract breach. Sources revealed that Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi had to visit Buhari in Daura to compel his appearance.
Sunrise Power’s leader, Leno Adesanya, has faced accusations of bribery and economic sabotage, which he denies, opting for arbitration. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) sought his arrest, charging him alongside former Power Minister Olu Agunloye.
Buhari’s testimony highlights Nigeria’s challenges with securing sustainable energy solutions. The Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project, conceived by Adesanya, was meant to alleviate Nigeria’s power shortages. Both Buhari’s administration and the project’s key figures remain at the center of legal and financial scrutiny.
Officials from the current and former administrations declined to comment on the developments.
