Reps Invite Goodluck Jonathan Over Multi-billion Naira Scandal

The house of representatives ad hoc committee probing the award of oil prospecting licence (OPL) 245 to Malabu Oil and Gas has invited ex-President Goodluck Jonathan today, Wednesday 5th July to testify in the ongoing investigations.

The committee noted however that it had conducted an extensive investigation into the OPL 245 saga and that it was drawing to a close. It, therefore, stated that in the interest of thoroughness, natural justice and fair play, it was imperative that evidence should be taken from the former President.

In arriving at the decision, a statement by the committee noted that it took account of the following facts:

(i) Mr Jonathan was the President at the material time the Ministers brokered the deal that lead to the allegation of $1bn diversion of funds;

(ii) Mr Jonathan’s name features in the proceedings initiated by the Public Prosecutor of Milan in Italy;

(iii) A U.K. Court Judgment in relation to an application to return part of the money being restrained, castigated the Jonathan Administration as not having acted in the best interest of Nigeria in relation to the ‘deal’;

(iv) The Attorney-General of the Federation at the material time, Mohammed Bello Adoke, has recently instituted proceedings in court wherein he pleads that all his actions were as as instructed by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

“Accordingly, pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution, the Committee has decided to request that former President Goodluck Jonathan gives evidence as to his role in the matter.” The statement sent by the House, said the Secretariat will write to him asking for his response and submissions.