Diezani Alison-Madueke Files N100 Billion Libel Lawsuit Against EFCC And AGF

In a recent legal development, former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has taken legal action against the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alleging libel. The lawsuit, which seeks N100 billion in damages, was filed on her behalf by a team of lawyers led by Mike Ozekhome (SAN). The former minister is demanding an apology and a substantial sum of money as compensation for what she claims to be false, injurious, malicious, and libelous publications made against her. The summons were served to both defendants, who have been given a period of 14 days to respond.

The Allegations and Demands:

Diezani Alison-Madueke’s legal team asserts that the publications in question were made on the EFCC’s publishing platform and were instigated by both the EFCC and the AGF. The former minister seeks N100 billion as damages for the harm caused by these alleged false and defamatory publications. The writ of summons, dated May 26, 2023, also demands that the EFCC and AGF issue a public apology to Alison-Madueke in three national newspapers.

Implications and Legal Proceedings:

With the filing of this lawsuit, the legal battle between Diezani Alison-Madueke and the Nigerian government authorities enters a new phase. The former minister, who left Nigeria in 2015, is seeking to clear her name and restore her reputation, which she believes has been tarnished by the publications mentioned in the lawsuit.

Both the EFCC and the AGF have been given a 14-day period to prepare and present their defense. The outcome of this case will be closely monitored, as it could have far-reaching implications for the individuals involved and for Nigeria’s legal landscape.

Diezani Alison-Madueke’s decision to file a N100 billion libel lawsuit against the EFCC and AGF marks a significant development in her ongoing legal battle. The former Petroleum Resources Minister aims to seek redress for what she claims are false and damaging publications made against her. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how this case will impact the reputation and future actions of all parties involved.