The Nigerian House of Representatives has launched an investigation into British agencies for allegedly flouting Nigerian court rulings. This inquiry targets the UK’s National Crime Agency, the Crown Prosecession Service, and investigator Sara Melo, for their continued undermining of verdicts that acquitted Aiteo Group CEO Benedict Peters.
Representative Aliyu Mustapha, spurred by the African Committee on Judicial, Human Rights, and Legal Matters’ plea, called for a robust legislative probe. This action seeks to protect Nigerian judicial integrity and shield Peters from further defamation.
The probe highlights a 2015 Economic and Financial Crimes Commission probe that exonerated Peters, yet faced undue asset seizure and intimidation. Subsequent court rulings, including a N200 million award for Peters for misrepresentation by law enforcement agencies, have been dismissed by UK officials, including Melo.
This inquiry by Nigerian officials stands as a defense of their legal system’s decisions and national sovereignty. The unfolding of this legislative action could significantly bolster judicial independence.
