EFCC probes officials over Mambilla power project deals after tribunal ruling
EFCC has established a special investigation team led by Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede to probe individuals implicated in alleged corrupt dealings surrounding the Mambilla Power Project, following an International Chamber of Commerce tribunal's ruling that rejected Sunrise Power's $2.7 billion claim against Nigeria and ordered the firm to refund $11.8 million in Nigeria's legal fees.
The tribunal's verdict specifically named several former Nigerian officials as having questionable financial dealings with Sunrise promoter Leno Adesanya. These include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar (linked to a $500,000 payment to his ex-wife Jennifer Douglas), former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami (criticized for an "inappropriate relationship" with Adesanya), former National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki (whose son received a $1.74 million payment from Adesanya that lacked proper documentation), former Power Minister Olu Agunloye, former Solicitor-General Abdullahi Yola, and former Power Ministry Permanent Secretary Dere Awosika.
Sources indicate Atiku and his ex-wife may be invited for EFCC questioning in coming days/weeks. The All Progressives Congress has challenged Atiku to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race over the allegations, though his aide dismissed the demand noting the tribunal didn't criminally indict him. The Mambilla project, a 3,960 MW hydroelectric facility in Taraba State, has been plagued by controversy since its inception.