Kingsley Kanayo | Lagos
The Nigerian government on Sunday confirmed the arrest of a former Petroleum Minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, in London, by the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency over allegations of corruption and money laundering.
“The government is aware of the arrest and all the government investigative agencies are working very closely with the British law enforcement,” the Senior Special Assistant to the President, Garba Shehu said on Sunday.
“Nigerian authorities are saying for the first time that matters are being handled with seriousness and deep commitment. Nobody wants to give the impression that this government is frivolous and unserious.
“For this reason, government is only confirming active collaboration. Beyond this, we are not saying more. In due course, Nigerians will be briefed on updates as appropriate.”
Asked about the identities of the other four people arrested with the former minister, Mr. Shehu declined comments, saying, “as I said no one is willing to provide further details at this point”.
Confirmation by the Nigerian presidency is coming two days after Mrs. Alison-Madueke was arrested and granted bail by the UK National Crime Agency over allegations of corruption and money laundering.
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