The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Jabi, Abuja, has delivered a significant verdict in the long-standing Malabu oil scandal case, acquitting and discharging former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Adoke, of all charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Abubakar Kutigi, presiding over the case, ruled on Adoke’s no-case submission, emphasizing the EFCC’s failure to substantiate charges of fraud, bribery, and money laundering against the former minister.
In a landmark decision, Justice Kutigi declared that Adoke had no case to answer and acquitted him on all counts.
Additionally, the court noted the absence of corroboration for the allegation of illegal tax waivers granted to Shell and Eni.
Regarding the alleged N300 million bribe from Aliyu Abubakar, the court found the EFCC’s evidence insufficient to support its case against Adoke.
However, the anti-graft agency maintained that Rasky Gbinigie, another defendant, still had a case to answer concerning the alleged forgery of company documents.
The EFCC’s case against Adoke dates back to January 15, 2020, when he was brought before the FCT High Court alongside other defendants, including Aliyu Abubakar, Rasky Gbinije of Malabu Oil & Gas Ltd, and several oil companies.
Adoke faced accusations of receiving gratification related to the OPL 245 resolution and conspiring with others to disobey legal directives.
Despite the verdict in Adoke’s favor, the Malabu oil scandal remains a contentious issue, highlighting the complexities and challenges of prosecuting high-profile corruption cases in Nigeria’s legal system.
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