Former Nigerian Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari have appeared before the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Paris to testify in a $2.3 billion arbitration case involving Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Ltd. The case stems from alleged contractual breaches by the Nigerian government related to the $6 billion Mambilla Hydropower Project, a 3,050-megawatt facility planned for Taraba State.  

The Mambilla project, initiated in 2003, has faced persistent delays and legal challenges. Sunrise Power claims the Nigerian government reneged on its contractual obligations and is seeking substantial compensation. After initially agreeing to a $200 million settlement in 2020, the company later increased its claim to $400 million, citing additional grievances.  

Reports suggesting coercion of prominent Nigerians to testify were dismissed by a presidential spokesperson, who clarified that both former leaders participated in the arbitration proceedings voluntarily. Sources confirmed their presence in Paris.  

Former President Obasanjo, in office when the agreement with Sunrise Power was signed in 2003, has questioned the legitimacy of the original contract. He alleged that the then-Minister of Power and Steel, Olu Agunloye, executed the agreement without his approval. “The actions of the minister were not sanctioned by my office,” Obasanjo reportedly said, casting doubt on the arbitration’s foundation.  

Former President Buhari, who led the government during the arbitration’s escalation, testified that he did not authorize any financial settlements with Sunrise Power. He also highlighted the broader consequences of unresolved legal disputes, stating, “Cases like this not only strain financial resources but also hinder critical infrastructure projects essential to national development.”  

Long regarded as a transformative initiative for Nigeria’s energy sector, the Mambilla Hydropower Project remains mired in legal and administrative hurdles nearly two decades after its inception. The ongoing arbitration raises questions about the project’s viability and highlights persistent challenges in managing large-scale infrastructure initiatives.  

Observers note that the ICC’s ruling could have profound implications for Nigeria’s international reputation and its ability to attract foreign investment. The outcome will likely influence the trajectory of the Mambilla project and shape the government’s approach to resolving future disputes over major development initiatives.  

Both Sunrise Power and the Nigerian government now await the ICC’s decision, which could either resolve the long-standing conflict or deepen uncertainties surrounding one of Africa’s most ambitious energy projects.