Former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun has reacted to the judgement on a suit brought against her by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
She had been accused of forging her NYSC certificate to facilitate her appointment as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
A Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Taiwo Taiwo, on Wednesday, ruled that the certificate was not a requirement for any political appointment in Nigeria.
He added that it was not necessary for Adeosun to have presented the NYSC certificate as she was not a Nigerian citizen at the time she was below 30 years, being the cut-off age for participation in the scheme.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the former Minister said she has been vindicated by the landmark judgement. She added that was traumatised by the certificate forgery allegation.
Kemi Adeosun added that she would take further steps to protect her reputation and that the judgment by Justice Taiwo Taiwo was not only a personal victory for her but for all Nigerians in the diaspora.
Her statement:
“My lawyers have informed me of the judgement by the Federal High Court, Abuja, in the case of Folakemi Adeosun vs The Attorney General of the Federation (FHC/ABJ/CS/303/2021) in which the court presided over by Honourable Justice Taiwo Taiwo, ruled that the Constitution does not require me to present my first degree certificate or any other certificate, including the NYSC certificate to be appointed a Minister.
“More importantly, he also ruled that I was not eligible to perform NYSC by virtue of the constitution. This is the position I have always maintained and am happy for this official clarification.
“The ruling vindicates me after a very traumatic spell. It is, however, not only a personal victory; it’s also a victory for many Nigerians in the Diaspora under similar conditions who are desirous to serve their country.
“I wish to thank God, my family, friends, my counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) and numerous well-wishers for their love, care and concern throughout this difficult period, which has lasted three whole years.
“I wish to add in the light of the court’s ruling, I will at the appropriate time and without hesitation, take all further steps necessary within the law to protect my reputation. I thank you all.”
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