In a significant legal turn, Justice Abubakar Kutigi of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has delivered a sweeping acquittal, absolving former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, of all allegations of fraud, bribery, and conspiracy.
The ruling marks a watershed moment in the high-stakes legal saga, as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) failed to substantiate its claims against Adoke, leading to a comprehensive dismissal of charges.
Justice Kutigi’s decision, following a “no case” submission by Adoke’s defense, highlighted the inadequacy of evidence presented by the EFCC, particularly regarding allegations of fraud, bribery, and money laundering.
With Adoke’s discharge and acquittal, the court addressed and dismantled key accusations, including those concerning alleged illegal tax waivers granted to multinational oil giants Shell and Eni. The court found no credible support from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) or any governmental body for these claims.
Similarly, the charge of Adoke receiving a N300 million bribe crumbled under scrutiny due to lack of substantial evidence, further bolstering his exoneration.
This landmark judgment could herald the conclusion of a long-standing legal battle over the OPL 245 oil field controversy, where Nigeria has encountered challenges both domestically and internationally.
It’s noteworthy that the EFCC itself admitted to insufficient evidence against Adoke and other defendants, with the exception of Rasky Gbinigie, who faces accusations of forgery related to corporate documents.
In summary, Justice Kutigi’s ruling not only clears Adoke’s name but also underscores the importance of robust evidence and due process in high-profile legal proceedings, setting a precedent for future cases.
