The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has urged Federal High Court in Abuja to discount evidence of former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke’s acquittal by UK court in her suit challenging forfeiture of her assets.
Diezani was acquitted by Southwark Crown Court in London on June 17, 2026, of bribery allegations. She subsequently asked Nigerian court to admit UK judgment as subsequent development relevant to her challenge against EFCC notice for auction and sale of her properties and personal effects.
In its further counter-affidavit, EFCC argued that UK proceedings were separate from Nigerian case and had no bearing on issues before Federal High Court. The commission also maintained that forfeiture order in question related specifically to jewellery and did not extend to other categories of assets or properties.
Diezani’s counsel, Mike Ozekhome, argued that acquittal was material development that could assist court in considering issues including fair hearing, due process and absence of conviction.
Justice Inyang Ekwo has adjourned case till November 11 for hearing of pending motions.
