Former Nigerian Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke Appeals for Prayer Amidst Bribery Charges in the UK.
Former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, currently facing multi-million pound bribery and corruption allegations brought by the United Kingdom National Crime Agency (NCA), has made an emotional plea to Nigerians, requesting their prayers and support during this challenging time.
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During a recent hearing on the fifth floor of the courtroom, Alison-Madueke addressed members of the Nigerian community in the UK, saying, “I need prayers. Please pray for me.” Her heartfelt appeal comes as she battles allegations of accepting a £100,000 bribe from oil companies.
Her legal team remains confident in her defense, with top Nigerian lawyer Benedict Peters flying to the UK to represent her. Peters expressed his belief that “the case is weak” and unlikely to succeed.
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Emeka Ozoani (SAN), another legal expert, pointed out that the NCA had invested five to six years in the investigation, raising questions about the allocation of taxpayers’ funds to the case. Ozoani stated, “I came to represent one of those linked to the case.”
Diezani Alison-Madueke’s legal troubles date back to October 2015 when she, along with four other individuals, was detained in the UK on suspicion of bribery and money laundering. The NCA’s allegations revolve around her alleged involvement in accepting bribes in exchange for awarding multi-million pound oil and gas contracts.
Dollar to Naira black market exchange rate today Nov 6, 2023: Aboki dollar to Naira today
In August 2023, the NCA released a statement outlining their suspicions, asserting that Alison-Madueke had benefited from at least £100,000 in cash, chauffeur-driven cars, private jet flights, luxury family vacations, and the use of multiple London properties.
Before being granted bail, District Judge Michael Snow at the Westminster Magistrates Court in the UK had imposed stringent conditions on Alison-Madueke, including an 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew and the mandatory wearing of an electronic tag at all times, deeming her a potential flight risk.
As this high-profile case unfolds, Nigerians and the international community continue to watch with keen interest, while Diezani Alison-Madueke seeks strength and support through the power of prayer during this challenging legal battle.
