Buhari Denies Approval: ‘I Never Sanctioned Mambilla Settlement With Sunrise Power

Buhari Denies Approval: ‘I Never Sanctioned Mambilla Settlement With Sunrise Power

In a dramatic turn of events surrounding the Mambilla hydroelectric power project, former President Muhammadu Buhari has unequivocally disavowed any endorsement of a settlement agreement with Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited…..READ ALSO Afenifere Blames Buhari And Emefiele For Nigeria’s Economic Crisis

This revelation follows a similar denial by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, adding layers of complexity to the ongoing dispute over the contentious project.

The saga began when Sunrise Power initiated arbitration against Nigeria at the ICC International Court of Arbitration, seeking a staggering $2.354 billion award for an alleged breach of contract related to the 2003 agreement.

Efforts to resolve the matter culminated in a settlement agreement in January 2020, orchestrated by then Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami. However, Buhari reportedly refused to greenlight the $200 million payment to Sunrise Power, citing financial constraints.

Despite Malami’s attempts to renegotiate the settlement, the proceedings continued, casting doubt on the resolution’s efficacy.

In a recent letter to the current AGF, Lateef Fagbemi, Buhari reiterated that he never authorized any form of settlement with Sunrise Power. He emphasized his commitment to completing the Mambilla project but expressed skepticism about the validity of Sunrise’s claims.

Buhari’s denial adds a new twist to the protracted legal battle, raising questions about accountability and the complexities of infrastructure development in Nigeria.