Former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has expressed relief and gratitude following her acquittal by a London court over bribery allegations that have trailed her for more than a decade.
The Southwark Crown Court in London on Wednesday cleared the former minister of five counts of accepting bribes and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery, bringing an end to a lengthy legal battle.
Reacting to the judgment, Alison-Madueke described the past 11 years as an arduous and traumatic period for herself, her family, and close associates.
Speaking with News Central shortly after the verdict, she said the prolonged case had taken an emotional toll on her loved ones, including her 93-year-old mother in Port Harcourt and her son.
“I’m just thankful to God. It’s been arduous, almost 11 years. It’s been traumatic not just for me but for my family, friends, my 93-year-old mother in Port Harcourt and for my son,” she said.
Reflecting on the outcome of the case, the former minister attributed her acquittal to divine intervention, expressing confidence in God’s faithfulness throughout her legal ordeal.
“It has been a hard journey, but I tell you this, God will always do as He will. God will be God and God is not a man that He should lie; when He promises you something, He will see it through,” she added.
Alison-Madueke also noted that she has remained in the United Kingdom since the commencement of the case nearly 11 years ago.
“For almost 11 years I have been here. I did my job to the best of my ability,” she stated.
The verdict marks a significant turning point in one of the most closely watched legal cases involving a former Nigerian public official in recent years.
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