Corruption: Ex-petroleum minister Deizani Alison-Madueke, others arrested in London
Nigeria’s immediate past Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has been arrested over corruption charges, reports say.
Alison-Madueke was arrested on Friday for offences related to bribery and corruption being investigated by the UK National Crime Agency, Abuja-based Premium Times is reporting.
It is not clear whether Alison-Madueke was arrested at the request of Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.
Alison-Madueke featured prominently under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Two top British officials in London reportedly confirmed Alison-Madueke’s arrest on Friday.
The British High Commission in Nigeria confirmed that some arrests were made Friday but declined naming the suspects.
Joseph Abuku, Press and Public Affairs Officer said, “This morning, five people between the ages of 21 and 60 were arrested on suspicion of bribery and corruption offences. The crimes are being investigated by the National Crime Agency.
“The National Crime Agency does not confirm identity at arrest nor provide information that could be used to corroborate the identity of an arrested individual.”
Alison-Madueke’s arrest is the biggest yet under Buhari who has vowed to fight corruption to a standstill.
Alison-Madueke had reportedly being stating outside Nigeria since Buhari assumed office..
