EFCC rejects Diezani’s bid to use UK acquittal in asset case

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has opposed former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke’s bid to present evidence of her acquittal by a United Kingdom court in her Nigerian asset forfeiture case.

According to Vanguard, the EFCC asked Justice Inyang Ekwo to dismiss the application, arguing that the Southwark Crown Court judgment was irrelevant to issues before the Federal High Court.

Diezani was discharged and acquitted on June 17 of bribery allegations in the UK. She subsequently sought to introduce the judgment while challenging the forfeiture and proposed sale of assets she claims affect her proprietary rights.

“The proceedings before the Southwark Crown Court, London, United Kingdom, and the purported acquittal of the applicant therein, are in respect of a proceeding that is not being prosecuted before any Nigerian court,” the EFCC said.

Diezani’s lawyers argue the acquittal is relevant to her case.

Justice Ekwo adjourned the matter until November 11 for hearing.