News
Lawyers Fault Case Against Alison-Madueke, Insists Allegations Remain Unproven
Joel Ajayi
The League of Legal Practitioners of Nigeria, LOLPON, says the ongoing trial of Nigeria’s former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, before a United Kingdom court has failed to meet the legal standard required for a conviction.
Addressing journalists at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the legal body said its position followed what it described as a careful and dispassionate review of facts available in the public domain.
“Our position is strictly legal, objective, and grounded in established principles of law,” the association stated.
LOLPON stressed that, as of now, no court of law has established guilt against the former minister.
“Nothing has been proven against the Defendant. Allegations remain allegations. In law, they do not translate to guilt until proven beyond reasonable doubt,” the group declared.
The legal practitioners referenced the presumption of innocence guaranteed under United Kingdom law and international human rights instruments, noting that the burden of proof lies solely on the prosecution.
“This is not symbolic; it is binding. The burden lies entirely on the prosecution, and at this stage, that burden has not been discharged,” LOLPON said.
On the substance of the bribery allegations, the association argued that prosecutors have failed to establish the essential elements required under the UK Bribery Act, including proof of financial benefit, improper conduct, and corrupt intent.
“Critical gaps remain. Alleged bribe payers have denied making any payments, and no direct evidence of corrupt intent has been established,” the statement noted.
The group maintained that neither the act nor the intention required to ground criminal liability has been proven under Nigerian or UK law.
“There is no conclusive evidence that the Defendant demanded, received, or intended to receive bribes in exchange for official actions,” it said.
Addressing allegations that a contractor rented an apartment for the former minister in London, LOLPON argued that the claim does not amount to bribery.
“There is no evidence that the property was owned by the Defendant, no evidence of financial gain, and no transfer of wealth,” the association stated.
It added that renting accommodation in London for official travel purposes could be reasonable and cost-effective, especially for officials travelling with large delegations.
The legal body also pointed to Nigerian procurement realities, stressing that contract awards are institutional decisions rather than personal ones.
“Ministers do not act in isolation, and stakeholder interactions within regulated boundaries do not automatically constitute criminal conduct,” LOLPON said.
On the issue of alleged corruption, the group insisted that no personal enrichment has been established.
“No asset transfer, no definitive financial benefit, and no unlawful accumulation of wealth have been proven,” the statement emphasized.
LOLPON further cited contradictions arising from the denial of bribery payments by alleged payers, arguing that such inconsistencies create reasonable doubt.
“In criminal law, where doubt exists, it must be resolved in favour of the accused,” it said.
The association urged United Kingdom judicial authorities to ensure that the case is determined strictly on the basis of evidence and due process.
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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