The Ad-hoc Committee of Nigerian House of Representatives has invited former president, Goodluck Jonathan over for alleged diversion of $1 billion.
This is the very first official attempt to probe or interrogate the former president.
The committee is currently investigating the alleged corruption, malpractices, breach of due process in the award of Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL) 245.
According to Rep. Rasak Atunwa, the Chairman of the Committee, the invitation of the former President will determine the next steps to be taken by the committee.
The committee noted that it had conducted extensive investigation into the OPL 245 saga and that it is drawing to a close.
However, the committee is of the view that in the interest of thoroughness, natural justice and fair play, it is imperative that evidence should be taken from former President Goodluck Jonathan.
In arriving at this decision, the committee took account of the following facts:
Jonathan was the President at the material time the ministers brokered the so-called resolution agreement that led to the allegation of $1 billion diversion of funds.
Jonathan’s name features in the proceedings initiated by the Public Prosecutor of Milan in Italy, he said.
A UK Court judgement 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.
The Attorney-General of the Federation at the material time, Mohammed Bello Adoke, who, of course, has been charged in relation to the case by the EFCC, has recently instituted proceedings in court.
He pleaded that all his actions were 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 give evidence to the committee, as to his role in the matter.
The secretariat will write, him asking for his response and submissions.”
