A group, Ijaw Women Advocates for Justice, has called for fairness and due process in the ongoing judicial proceedings involving former Petroleum Minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, in the United Kingdom.
The leader of the group, Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agary, made the call at a news conference in Abuja.
According to her, she is not defending or condemn Diezani, but to uphold the principle of justice and ensure that legal processes are allowed to take their full course without interference from public pressure or media trial.
She noted that every individual is entitled to a fair hearing, due process and the presumption of innocence, stressing that these are fundamental rights and not privileges.
Dr. Koripamo-Agary also said Diezani’s previous service as a senior executive in Shell and later as Nigeria’s petroleum minister should not lead to either automatic condemnation or immunity, but should be treated with seriousness and fairness.
The group leader warned against sensational media reports, selective narratives and attempts to use public opinion to influence judicial proceedings.
Dr. Koripamo-Agary urged the courts to be allowed to do their work, insisting that justice should be based on evidence and the rule of law.
