In a decision that reeks of political interference, a UK court today threw out bribery charges against former Nigerian oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke. The ruling, delivered at Southwark Crown Court, effectively ends a years-long investigation into millions of dollars in alleged kickbacks from oil contracts. Sources close to the case confirm the judge accepted arguments that the prosecution had relied on tainted evidence, including testimony from a witness with a grudge.
But insiders are sceptical: this is the same woman who, according to leaked US diplomatic cables, lived a life of obscene luxury while Nigeria's oil revenues vanished. The court's decision leaves a bitter taste, especially given that she remains wanted in Nigeria for alleged theft of $2.5 billion.
Her legal team, grinning like Cheshire cats, called it a victory for justice. I call it business as usual. Follow the money.
It always leads back to the suits.
