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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