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."