Olusegun Obasanjo has issued a statement clarifying his role in the arbitration proceedings related to the Mambilla Power Project in France, following recent speculations surrounding his involvement.
In a press statement today, Obasanjo explained that his decision to testify against the Mambilla Power Project contractor, Agunloye, was entirely voluntary and not influenced by any request from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or his administration. The former president made it clear that his testimony was based on his personal conviction and his long-standing concern for the integrity of the project, which has faced numerous challenges over the years.
Obasanjo noted that the Mambilla Power Project is of national importance and has the potential to significantly improve Nigeria’s energy sector. However, he expressed concerns about the delays and mismanagement that have hindered its completion, emphasizing the need for accountability in the ongoing arbitration process.
"I took the decision to testify because I believe that the Mambilla Power Project is crucial for Nigeria's future, and I have always been committed to seeing the country’s infrastructure projects executed with integrity," Obasanjo said. "I did not testify at the request of President Tinubu, nor was I pressured to do so. My involvement is a personal decision to ensure that Nigeria’s interests are properly represented."