EFCC Pursues Extradition of Diezani Alison-Madueke in Money Laundering Case

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated the extradition process for former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, from the United Kingdom.

This move comes as she faces 13-count money laundering charges by the EFCC. The charges against her extend across multiple jurisdictions, including Dubai, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Nigeria.

Alison-Madueke previously appeared before the Westminster Magistrates Court in London regarding an alleged £100,000 bribe. She was granted £70,000 bail, with additional conditions such as an evening curfew, an electronic tag, and a £70,000 surety.

The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) had earlier suspected that she accepted bribes in exchange for lucrative oil and gas contracts. The EFCC and NCA have collaborated informally, leading to her ongoing trial in London.

Diezani Alison-Madueke served as the Minister of Petroleum Resources from 2010 to 2015, during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. The EFCC alleges that she embezzled $2.5 billion from the Nigerian government during her tenure.

The EFCC has obtained an arrest warrant and initiated extradition proceedings to bring her to trial in Nigeria. Although the charges in London differ from those by the EFCC, the Commission is determined to ensure justice is served.

The NCA has detailed allegations of Diezani’s financial benefits, including cash, luxury goods, and properties. They have also provided evidence to the US Department of Justice, leading to the recovery of assets linked to her alleged corruption.

Head of the NCA’s international corruption unit, Andy Kelly, emphasized the importance of tackling bribery as it can enable serious criminality and harm developing countries.