Justice Minister Fagbemi blasts Atiku, says criticism of OPL 245 deal ‘self-serving’
Nigeria’s Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has dismissed recent criticisms by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over the controversial OPL 245 oil deal, describing them as “misleading” and driven by personal interests.
Fagbemi’s response comes amid renewed debate over the long-running dispute surrounding Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL) 245, one of Nigeria’s most valuable deepwater oil blocks, which has been at the centre of international litigation and corruption allegations for over a decade.
In a strongly worded statement, the Attorney-General accused Atiku of attempting to distort facts for political advantage, insisting that the Federal Government’s position on the deal remains guided by national interest and legal prudence.
Clash Over a Controversial Oil Block
The OPL 245 deal—originally awarded in 1998—has drawn global attention following its eventual transfer to oil giants Shell and Eni in a transaction that triggered investigations in multiple jurisdictions, including Italy and the United Kingdom.
Atiku had reportedly criticised the Federal Government’s handling of the matter, raising concerns about transparency and accountability. However, Fagbemi rejected the claims, arguing that such criticisms ignore the complex legal and historical context of the deal.
“The insinuations being made are not only inaccurate but appear to be driven by self-serving motives rather than genuine concern for national interest,” the Attorney-General stated.
Government Defends Its Position
Fagbemi maintained that the administration has acted within the bounds of the law in addressing disputes tied to OPL 245, emphasizing that decisions taken were based on careful legal consideration and aimed at protecting Nigeria’s economic interests.
He stressed that the government remains committed to ensuring that Nigeria derives maximum value from its natural resources while upholding transparency and due process.
The Attorney-General also cautioned against politicising sensitive national issues, warning that such actions could undermine investor confidence and distort public understanding of complex legal matters.
Background to OPL 245 Saga
OPL 245 has been mired in controversy since it was first awarded to Malabu Oil and Gas, a company linked to former Petroleum Minister Dan Etete. The block was later the subject of a $1.1 billion deal involving Shell and Eni, with allegations that a significant portion of the funds was used for improper payments.
Although courts in Italy acquitted Shell and Eni executives of corruption charges in 2021, the case remains a reference point in global discussions about resource governance and transparency in Nigeria’s oil sector.
The Nigerian government has, over the years, pursued various legal strategies to reclaim value and assert control over the asset, reflecting the high stakes attached to the oil block.
Political Undertones Emerge
Analysts say the latest exchange between Fagbemi and Atiku underscores the political sensitivity of the OPL 245 issue, particularly as it intersects with broader debates about governance, accountability, and resource management in Nigeria.
“It’s not just a legal matter—it’s deeply political,” a policy analyst noted. “Statements like this are as much about shaping public perception as they are about defending policy decisions.”
What Lies Ahead
With tensions rising over the narrative surrounding OPL 245, stakeholders expect further clarifications from both the government and opposition figures as the issue continues to generate public and political interest.
For now, the Attorney-General’s remarks signal a firm pushback from the Federal Government against criticisms it considers unfounded and politically motivated.
