The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has welcomed the acquittal of former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, following a landmark verdict delivered by a court in London.
The judgment, which brings an end to more than a decade of legal proceedings and investigations, was greeted with jubilation among many Ijaw stakeholders and supporters who had closely followed the case over the years.
In a statement issued by the President of the IYC Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, the organization described the verdict as a significant moment that marks the conclusion of a long and challenging chapter in the life of the former minister.
Alison-Madueke, who made history as the first female President of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), had been the subject of legal proceedings in the United Kingdom for several years over allegations linked to her time in public office.
According to reports, a jury at the Southwark Crown Court returned not-guilty verdicts on all counts after extensive deliberations, effectively bringing the matter to a close.
Reacting to the development, the IYC leadership said the verdict reaffirmed its longstanding belief that justice should be allowed to run its course without unnecessary delays.
Lokpobiri noted that throughout the lengthy legal process, Alison-Madueke remained steadfast despite the pressures associated with the high-profile case.
He also highlighted her contributions to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, describing her rise to international prominence as a source of pride for many people from the Niger Delta region.
The IYC president recalled his visit to London earlier in the year, where he attended part of the court proceedings and expressed concerns over the prolonged nature of the case. He stated that the council consistently advocated for a fair and timely resolution.
With the legal battle now concluded, the organization expressed hope that Alison-Madueke would move forward with renewed strength and continue to contribute positively to society.
The council also extended prayers for her wellbeing, peace of mind, and success in future endeavors while thanking God for sustaining her throughout the years of legal challenges.
The verdict has generated widespread reactions across the Niger Delta and beyond, with many observers describing it as the end of one of the most closely watched legal cases involving a former Nigerian public official on the international stage.
