The Nigerian House of Representatives has indicted former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and several officials in his administration. The indictment pertains to the alleged mishandling of billions of dollars spent on the power sector between 1999 and 2007. The House of Representatives, with members of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party in majority, recommended the investigation and trial of Obasanjo and his former minister of energy.
President Umaru Yar'Adua says despite the huge amount spent, the nations power supply remains grossly inadequate and is hurting efforts to improve the economy. Sina Loremikan is the South West Coordinator of the group, Zero Corruption coalition. He says the indictment was not a surprise. "It's been a long pregnant expectation.
We have been expecting it for long".The anti-corruption activist says despite the ruling PDP's majority status in parliament, they could not sweep the matter under the carpet because of the huge sums involved. "It is obvious we have been short-changed for long and the dilemma before us does not know any race, does not know any party affiliation, does not know whether you are reach or poor."Loremikan says powerful forces have been fighting for the report to remain secret.
"It is also expected because you are dealing with a formidable forces who have held on to power for decades and to indict them, you will be facing all kinds of obstacles and landmines would have been on the road for you."