Former President Buhari returns to Nigeria after testifying in Paris arbitration case
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to Nigeria after giving testimony in a high-stakes arbitration case at the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Court of Arbitration in Paris, France.
A video shared by Bashir Ahmad, Buhari’s former Special Assistant on Digital Communications, captured the moment he disembarked from an aircraft upon his arrival.
The case involves a $2.3 billion dispute between the Nigerian government and Sunrise Power over an alleged breach of contract tied to the construction of the 3,050MW Mambilla Power Plant in Taraba State. The $6 billion project was originally conceived on a build, operate, and transfer basis.
The conflict stems from a 2003 agreement and a subsequent 2020 settlement deal that Sunrise Power alleges the government failed to honor.
Buhari’s testimony serves as a significant component of Nigeria’s defense strategy. The presidency confirmed that witnesses, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, have also voluntarily provided testimony in support of the country’s position.
Both Buhari and Obasanjo have denied authorizing any agreements or settlements related to the Mambilla project, a claim that challenges Sunrise Power’s assertions in the arbitration proceedings.
The outcome of this case will be pivotal for Nigeria, as it concerns one of the largest power infrastructure projects in the country’s history.
