Amanze Chinonye
The media office of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has pushed back against comments by the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, over the controversial OPL 245 oil block, insisting its position is rooted in verifiable public records rather than political considerations, Prime Business Africa reports.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Atiku Media Office described as “misleading” claims attributed to Fagbemi that opposition voices on the OPL 245 matter are driven by self-interest rather than patriotism.
The statement argued that such remarks attempt to divert attention from what it called “substantive legal and factual issues” surrounding the Federal Government’s reported resolution of the long-running dispute over OPL 245.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAccording to the media office, its stance is based on publicly available documents, including a pre-action notice by Malabu Oil and Gas Limited, which it said raises significant legal objections to the purported settlement.
It further noted that key stakeholders have challenged the legitimacy of the claimed resolution, alleging they were neither consulted nor involved in negotiations. The statement also pointed out that multiple lawsuits concerning the oil asset remain pending before courts of competent jurisdiction.
“It is disingenuous and troubling for the Attorney-General to dismiss legitimate concerns rooted in documented legal processes as self-interest,” the statement said, adding that raising questions based on verifiable records is a fundamental responsibility in a constitutional democracy.
READ ALSO : Opposition to OPL 245 Settlement Driven by Self-Interest, Not Patriotism – AGF
OPL 245 Dispute: Atiku Camp Faults FG’s ‘Final Resolution’ Claim, Cites Fresh Legal Action
The Atiku camp stressed that OPL 245 remains one of Nigeria’s most consequential oil assets, with a history of complex litigation and international scrutiny, warning against what it described as “premature declarations” regarding the dispute’s resolution.
The statement also sought to distance the former vice president from any interest in the oil block, asserting that he “does not have, has never had, and will never have” any stake in OPL 245.
Calling for transparency and adherence to due process, the media office urged the Attorney-General to address the substantive legal concerns raised, rather than resorting to what it termed propaganda.
The Federal Government has yet to issue a formal response to the latest claims, as debates continue over the legality and finality of the reported settlement.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
