Court Allows Diezani to Present UK Acquittal Evidence

On Wednesday, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Inyang Ekwo, granted a motion filed by former Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke, allowing her to present evidence of her acquittal by the Southwark Crown Court in London. The UK court had discharged and acquitted her of bribery allegations on June 17, 2023.

Diezani's lawyer, Godwin Iyinbor, filed the motion without opposition from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), represented by Mofesomo Oyetibo, SAN. The court scheduled the next hearing for October 6, 2023.

The case involves Diezani's challenge against the EFCC's public auction of her properties, claiming it affects her proprietary rights without due process. Professor Mike Ozekhome, representing Diezani, emphasized the importance of adhering to statutory safeguards in property dispossession.

The court acknowledged the need for further supplementary affidavits related to the UK acquittal.