UK Court’s Acquittal Of Diezani, Fmr. Petroleum Minister: Ijaw Women Group Commends Due Process

By Ayodele Oni

Ijaw Women Advocates for Justice has expressed satisfaction that rule of law prevailed in the trial of former Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke, by London’s Southwark Crown Court.

The women group hailed the acquittal of  Alison-Madueke, by London’s Southwark Crown Court, in the five counts of accepting bribes and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery.

A jury on Wednesday acquitted Alison-Madueke of five counts of accepting bribes and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery after more than 46 hours of deliberation.

In a statement signed by Timiebi Koripamo-Agary, the Ijaw women group noted that due process remains the cornerstone of every civilised society, adding that allegations are not convictions.

“Today, June 17th, we receive with gratitude the verdict of the UK court acquitting Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke of all charges brought against her after a lengthy legal process,” the statement said.

“In April, the Ijaw Women Advocates for Justice addressed the press and called for one simple principle: respect for the Rule of Law and the right of every person to a fair hearing.

“We neither sought to influence the judicial process nor substitute public opinion for the courts. We simply insisted that justice must be allowed to take its course.

“Today’s outcome reinforces an important truth: allegations are not convictions, and due process remains the cornerstone of every civilized society.

“We thank God that the judicial process has run its course and that a verdict has been reached by a competent court and jury.

“We also appreciate all those who stood firmly for fairness, justice, and the presumption of innocence throughout this long and difficult journey.

“As Ijaw women, we remain committed to justice, equity, and the rule of law for all people, irrespective of status, gender, ethnicity, or circumstance. To God be the glory.”