Diezani Seeks Fair Hearing: Moves to Amend Legal Battle Against EFCC Asset Forfeiture

Former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke has taken fresh steps in her legal tussle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the final forfeiture of her seized assets. Appearing before Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja, she sought to amend her suit challenging the EFCC’s actions.

At the resumed hearing, EFCC representatives were conspicuously absent. Justice Ekwo inquired whether Diezani’s legal team had received any communication from the anti-graft agency, to which her counsel confirmed receipt.

The former minister’s lawyer informed the court of a filed motion to amend their originating processes, stating that the EFCC had been duly served. In response, Justice Ekwo scheduled the hearing for February 17, 2025.

Diezani’s legal filing argues that she was not granted fair hearing during the proceedings that led to the EFCC’s order for the public sale of her property. She is seeking an extension of time to apply for the court to set aside the agency’s public notice.

However, the EFCC dismissed many of her claims, labeling them untrue. According to the commission, the forfeiture rulings were based on multiple hearings that were duly conducted and concluded in court.

This development adds another layer to the high-profile legal battle over assets reportedly linked to corruption during Diezani’s tenure as Petroleum Minister. Whether the amended suit will alter the trajectory of the case remains to be seen.