The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted former Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke, permission to amend her lawsuit challenging the final forfeiture of her assets to the federal government.
Justice Inyang Ekwo approved the request after her lawyer, Godwin Inyinbor, moved a motion seeking an amendment to her suit. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Divine Oguru, did not oppose the application. The judge directed Alison-Madueke to file and serve the amended processes within five days, while the EFCC was given 14 days to respond. The case was adjourned to March 17 for further proceedings.
Alison-Madueke is contesting the EFCC’s final forfeiture order, which led to the public sale of her seized properties. She argued that the orders were issued without jurisdiction and violated her right to a fair hearing, as she was neither served court documents nor given an opportunity to defend herself.
The EFCC, however, maintains that due process was followed, with public notices issued before the final forfeiture. The commission insists that its investigation uncovered acts of criminality and corruption involving the ex-minister, leading to the seizure of her assets, including $153 million and over 80 properties.
Alison-Madueke, who served as petroleum minister from 2010 to 2015 under former President Goodluck Jonathan, has been in the United Kingdom since leaving office. She is also seeking N100 billion in damages from the EFCC over alleged defamatory publications.
