The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken crucial steps towards the extradition of former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, from the United Kingdom to Nigeria. The move comes as part of efforts to address allegations of corruption and money laundering against her.
Alison-Madueke, who served as the Minister of Petroleum Resources from 2010 to 2015 during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, has faced a series of accusations, including the alleged misappropriation of $2.5 billion in government funds during her tenure.
The EFCC, in collaboration with the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA), initiated proceedings against her in the Westminster Magistrates Court in London. Notably, the charges against her encompass a broad range of jurisdictions, including Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Nigeria.
During her recent appearance in court, District Judge Michael Snow granted Alison-Madueke bail in the amount of £70,000. However, stringent conditions were imposed, including an electronic tag to be worn at all times, an 11 pm to 6 am curfew, and a £70,000 surety payment before leaving the court building. The court appearance was related to an alleged £100,000 bribe.
The NCA has previously reported suspicions of Alison-Madueke accepting bribes in exchange for the awarding of multi-million-pound oil and gas contracts. Additionally, in March 2023, the NCA's collaboration with the US Department of Justice resulted in the recovery of assets totaling USD $53.1 million connected to her alleged corruption.
In response to these developments, the EFCC's spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, stated, "No crime can go unpunished." He confirmed that an arrest warrant had been obtained, and extradition proceedings had been initiated, with the aim of bringing the former minister to trial in Nigeria.
The ongoing legal proceedings serve as a significant milestone in addressing corruption and ensuring accountability, both in Nigeria and on the international stage.
