Former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has taken legal action against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), demanding N100 billion in damages. In a writ of summons filed at a federal high court in Abuja by a team of lawyers led by Mike Ozekhome, a senior advocate, on May 26, 2023, Alison-Madueke seeks redress for false and defamatory claims of corruption made against her.
Alison-Madueke’s legal team also requests that the EFCC and AGF issue a public apology to her through three national newspapers. The apology is sought in response to what she describes as “false, injurious, malicious, and libelous publications” targeting her since her departure from the country in 2015.
The former minister highlights specific statements and publications by the EFCC, which she asserts were deliberately designed to tarnish her reputation and integrity. She claims that these actions have indeed damaged her reputation and integrity both within Nigeria and among right-thinking individuals worldwide. The negative impact includes subjecting her to public ridicule, odium, contempt, derision, and obloquy.
This legal suit marks a significant development in the ongoing controversy surrounding Diezani Alison-Madueke. By seeking substantial damages and an apology, she aims to restore her reputation and challenge the allegations of corruption that have plagued her since leaving office.