Seized fund to the sum of £4.2m (N2.2bn) by the United Kingdom government from ex-Delta State Governor James Ibori and his accomplices is set to be refunded to the Nigerian government.
Abubakar Malami, the Attorney-General of the Federation, made this known while delivering his speech on Tuesday at the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding between the UK government and Nigerian government as regards the return and management of stolen funds recovered from the ex- delta governor.
He said, “I wish to remark that today’s ceremony and the recoveries attached thereto has again underscored the fact that international cooperation and mutual trust can yield great benefits for the citizenry in developing countries who are the direct victims of acts of corruption.
“Hence, the governments of Nigeria and the United Kingdom have concluded negotiations for the return of £4.2m to Nigeria pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding earlier executed by the two governments in 2016.
“It is to be recalled that the Nigerian government had all along provided the required mutual assistance and back up to the British authorities while the prosecution of James Ibori lasted in London, and today, we are rightfully taking benefit of that cooperation.”
Malami, who is also the Minister of Justice, said he was confident that both the Nigerian and British governments remain committed to combating corruption and illicit financial flows and ensuring that looters do not find comfort or safe haven in their respective territories.
Malami, who doubles as the Minister of Justice, said he is confident that both the UK and Nigerian governments are committed to combating corruption and illegal money transfer and also ensuring that looters do not find safety in their respective territories.
