On Wednesday, the Federal High Court in Abuja approved a request from former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke to introduce documentation confirming her acquittal by a London court. Justice Inyang Ekwo presided over the session, where the motion was presented by her legal counsel, Godwin Iyinbor. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), represented by Mofesomo Oyetibo, did not oppose the filing.
The legal team for the former minister intends to use the June 17, 2026, ruling from the Southwark Crown Court, which cleared her of bribery charges, to bolster her ongoing efforts to recover seized assets. While the EFCC questioned the necessity of the filing, they ultimately chose not to mount a formal challenge. Justice Ekwo granted the motion, scheduling the next hearing for October 6, where the court will review both the substantive case and the pending preliminary objections.
Diezani’s legal representative, Professor Mike Ozekhome, argued that the acquittal is a crucial development. He noted that the former minister’s lawsuit disputes the EFCC’s plans to auction her properties, contending that these actions violate her rights to due process and fair hearings. The defense maintains that this new evidence is essential for the court to reach a fair and informed decision regarding the forfeiture of her assets.
