Mambilla Power Probe: Ex-AGF Aondoaka Didn’t Review FEC Decision Before Legal Opinion, EFCC Witness Tells Court

Testimony raises fresh questions over legal basis of controversial Mambilla contract award

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By A1 News International | Abuja, Nigeria

Fresh revelations have emerged in the ongoing trial of former Minister of Power, Dr. Olu Agunloye, as an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) witness told a Federal Capital Territory High Court that a former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Michael Aondoaka, SAN, did not review the Federal Executive Council (FEC) decision before issuing his legal opinion on the Mambilla power project.

The testimony was delivered by Assistant Commissioner of Police Umar Hussein Babangida, an EFCC investigator, during proceedings before Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie in Abuja.

Witness Details Gaps in Legal Review Process

Babangida, appearing as the third prosecution witness, stated that Aondoaka informed investigators that his legal opinion was based solely on documents available to him at the time and not on the official FEC conclusions of May 21, 2003.

According to the witness, Aondoaka admitted that he did not have access to the FEC resolution and indicated that his opinion might have differed had he reviewed the full proceedings.

The EFCC investigation team also engaged other former Attorneys-General, including Abubakar Malami, SAN, and Kanu Agabi, SAN, as part of its probe into the contract award.

While Aondoaka and Malami provided written statements, Agabi reportedly gave an oral account, advising investigators to rely on official government records due to the passage of time.

Legal Opinions and Contract Controversy

The prosecution revealed that Aondoaka had earlier advised the Federal Government to revive the contract awarded to Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited (SPTCL), citing legal implications.

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He also recommended terminating the re-awarded contract and reinstating the earlier agreement with the company.

Babangida further disclosed that Malami’s position on the matter was influenced by Aondoaka’s legal opinion.

The court was also presented with documentary evidence, including extracts from the FEC meeting, detailing deliberations on the Mambilla Hydroelectric Project and directives issued to the defendant.

Trial Continues Amid Serious Allegations

Agunloye is facing a seven-count charge filed by the EFCC, bordering on alleged forgery, disobedience of presidential directives, and receipt of gratification in connection with the Mambilla contract.

He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Following the re-examination of the witness, Justice Onwuegbuzie adjourned the case until April 20 for continuation of hearing.

WHY IT MATTERS

The testimony raises critical concerns about due process in high-value government contracts and the reliance on incomplete documentation in legal advisory roles. The outcome of the trial could have broader implications for accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s public procurement system.