Amanze ChinonyeThe Federal High Court, Abuja, has adjourned the suit filed by former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Madueke, challenging the forfeiture of her assets to the Federal Government until 6 October 2025, for a definite hearing.
Justice Mohammed Umar fixed the date on Monday after lawyers representing both parties regularized their legal filings.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAt the hearing, counsel to Alison-Madueke, Mr. Godwin Inyinbor, informed the court that they had been served two fresh motions, to which they had responded.
On his part, Mr. Mofesomo Oyetibo, SAN, appearing for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), noted that it was his first time handling the matter. Justice Umar, also encountering the case for the first time, consequently adjourned proceedings.
Alison-Madueke, in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/21/2023, is seeking the court’s permission to extend the time to challenge the EFCC’s public notice announcing the sale of her seized properties. She argues that the forfeiture orders were granted without jurisdiction and in breach of her right to a fair hearing.
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Among the reliefs sought is an order nullifying the EFCC’s public notice, because she was not given an opportunity to defend herself before the assets were forfeited.
Mrs Madueke’s Lawyer contends that:
“She was not served with the charge sheet, proof of evidence, or summons.
“The proceedings that led to the asset forfeiture violated her right to a fair hearing as guaranteed by Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“The EFCC obtained the court orders through suppression or non-disclosure of material facts.”
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In response, the EFCC urged the court to dismiss the suit, asserting that due process was followed in obtaining the final forfeiture orders. The commission argued that the properties were legally disposed of based on a valid court order issued in 2017, which remains unchallenged.
The suit continues to draw significant public attention, as Alison-Madueke, who has remained abroad since leaving office in 2015, faces corruption allegations and asset seizures both locally and internationally.
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