Prominent legal advocate Professor Mike Ozekhome, SAN, has categorically denied allegations of corruption against Diezani Alison-Madueke, Nigeria’s former Minister of Petroleum Resources.
Speaking in a statement titled “There is no such thing as Diezani Loot,” Ozekhome revealed that UK authorities have not found any evidence linking Alison-Madueke to stolen Nigerian funds.
He explained that despite nearly a decade-long investigation by UK officials since October 2015, Alison-Madueke has not been charged with misappropriation of public funds.
“Let us be very clear about this: the issues of non-payment of the cash-calls that subsequently arose in the Atlantic Energy SAAs had nothing whatsoever to do with the initial contract award which followed due process and was properly made.
“Those issues arose as a direct result of the manner of operational implementation and supervision and had nothing whatsoever to do with DAM. She was never involved in any way or manner.
“As a matter of fact in April 2014, as soon as she was brought to her attention by an external multinational head that there were some issues regarding the Atlantic Energy SAAs, she immediately took strong and direct action by promptly alerting Mr. President, the Permanent Secretary (PS), of MPR and the GMD-NNPC, in writing, and directed that an immediate two-week investigation be carried out.
“Following the resulting investigative report, DAM again directed in writing to the PS, MPR and the GMD-NNPC, with Mr. President’s knowledge and approval, that a process for the recovery of the unpaid cash-call be immediately put in place,” he said.
Ozekhome disclosed that the former minister had taken proactive measures when concerns about the agreements came to light in 2014. She reportedly informed relevant authorities, including the President, and initiated an investigation to address the issues.
He further noted that the yacht allegedly tied to her was forfeited by businessman Kola Aluko, whose contracts with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) were deemed valid. Ozekhome stressed that Alison-Madueke’s role was limited to endorsing contracts vetted by the NNPC, adhering to due process.
Touching on her personal struggles, the lawyer revealed that Alison-Madueke underwent chemotherapy for cancer before being detained in the UK. He described her ordeal as a mix of public vilification and personal hardship, calling for fairness and respect for legal processes.
“Let the law take its natural course. It is time to stop the vilification of an innocent Nigerian citizen,” Ozekhome concluded, urging the public to allow the UK legal system to work without undue interference or bias.
