Nigeria’s chances of getting a former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke extradited home to face charges may have dimmed following her alleged citizenship and officer of a commissioner of the Commonwealth of Dominica The Nation reports.
Diezani cannot be repatriated as her Dominican diplomatic passport contains a restraining order and gives her an immunity over any prosecution or arrest. She is also a British citizen which adds up also to her protection. Her current status really sets hurdles against her extradition.
The restraining order reads The strange immunity order says: ”The President of the Commonwealth of Dominica requests and requires in the name of the Government of Dominica all those whom it may concern to allow the bearer to pass freely without let or hindrance and afford the bearer such assistance and protection as may be necessary”.
Diezani is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for corruption, an alleged N23.29billion poll bribery scam as well as N47.2 billion; $487.5million; N23,446,300,000 and $5milion (about N1.5billion) in various Nigerian banks.
Her assets, of over 76 properties located in Abuja and Lagos valued at about N23billion, a $37.5million Banana Island property and also an alleged spending of $6.9 million for mobile stages used during mass public speaking events.
Diezani was issued a diplomatic passport, DP0000445 by the Dominican Government on May 21.2015 shortly before the handover to President Muhammadu Buhari by ex-President Goodluck Jonathan. According to Vanguard, She carefully planned her Dominican citizenship, as the offer and acceptance were completed a few days just before the expiration of her tenure in office on May 29, 2015.
The Prime Minister’s letter to Diezani reads in part “I am pleased to confirm your appointment as Trade and Investment Commissioner for the Commonwealth of Dominica.
“Please note that this posting does not attract a remunerative package. In that respect, I am particularly encouraged by your willingness to serve.
“The appointment of a Trade and Investment Commissioner is consistent with my Government’s declared intention to have a permanent and active presence in the global business and financial sector operations. We believe that Dominica can benefit immeasurably from your illustrious record and profession success, and knowledge of investments and business operations.
“As Trade and Investment Commissioner, your scope of operation would revolve around the direct promotion and marketing of Dominica as a trade and investment domicile, as well as an emerging and unique tourist destination in the Caribbean”
The Acting Chairman of EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu in February stated, she has only not been returned to Nigeria to face charges because she is under a protective umbrella.
“This woman stole so much, not less than $2.5 billion. But unfortunately, she has a generation of looters who are supporting her. This is not good.
“We are in touch with the international community, she is under protective custody, otherwise, we would have arrested her and return her to Nigeria.” He said
It’s very unfortunate that Mrs Allison, the former Minister of petroleum is being shields by some powerful institutions despite her serious allegations !. It’s a shame to the institution for aiding and abetting a pronounced suspect. The EFCC should employ others international legal action accordingly. May Naija succeed !!!.