Bayelsa Monarchs Call for Fair Trial for Ex-Minister Alison-Madueke

• Traditional rulers from the Atissa kingdom demand justice and fairness in the trial of former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke.
• They stress Alison-Madueke has not been convicted of any crime in Nigeria despite over a decade of investigations.
• Monarchs highlight her contributions to local content development in the Nigerian oil and gas industry.
• The rulers call for an end to her protracted legal ordeal and respect for her rights as a citizen and princess.

Traditional rulers from the Atissa kingdom in Obogoro, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, have urged that the trial of former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, be conducted fairly. Addressing journalists on Tuesday, HRH Ovie Omeleh, the paramount ruler of Yenaka, spoke on behalf of twelve other chiefs present, highlighting what they describe as a decade-long injustice.

“Justice that is delayed for over a decade, without a conclusive end, becomes an affront even to the world’s most powerful nations,” Omeleh said. He emphasized that Alison-Madueke remains a cherished member of their royal lineage and a vital figure in the Atissa Kingdom.

The monarchs noted that for more than ten years, Alison-Madueke has lived under the weight of sustained legal scrutiny and public pressure, effectively placing her in exile. They called for an orderly and fair conclusion to her legal challenges, stressing her dignity as both an individual and a princess.

Highlighting Contributions to Niger Delta Development

The rulers also recognized Alison-Madueke’s impact on the Nigerian oil and gas sector, particularly her role in implementing the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) initiative. Omeleh described the program as transformative for the Niger Delta, empowering the local population and fostering infrastructure and human capital development.

“She was the driving force behind local content development in the Niger Delta region. Her impact is not a matter of debate; it is a matter of record,” the paramount ruler said, adding that her leadership opened doors for Nigerians in the industry and contributed to national growth.

The monarchs concluded by reaffirming their support for Alison-Madueke and her right to due process, urging Nigerian authorities to ensure her legal case is resolved justly. They stressed that recognition of her professional achievements, combined with a fair trial, is essential for the dignity of both the individual and the community she represents.

The statement reflects the continued attention of local leaders in Bayelsa to the treatment of prominent citizens, particularly those who have contributed significantly to the nation’s development.