Atiku Abubakar Challenges Federal Government Claims Over Final Resolution of OPL 245 Oil Block Dispute

Former VP Atiku Abubakar labels the FG resolution of the OPL 245 dispute as misleading due to new Malabu Oil legal challenges and lack of transparency.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 23, 2026, 4:34 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The Authority

Legal Friction Challenges Executive Claims of Finality in Energy Sector Deal

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has formally disputed the Federal Government’s assertion that the long-standing OPL 245 controversy has reached a conclusive end. In a detailed statement released through his media office on March 22, 2026, Atiku characterized the administration's claims as misleading, citing a fresh pre-action notice filed by Malabu Oil and Gas Limited. This new legal maneuver, spearheaded by Chief R. O. Atabo (SAN), directly contradicts the narrative of a total settlement previously put forward by Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi.

Judicial Overlap and the Exclusion of Principal Stakeholders in Negotiations

The dispute remains deeply entrenched within the Nigerian judicial hierarchy, with ongoing proceedings currently active in both the Supreme Court and the Federal High Court. According to the former Vice President, the government’s attempt to project a finalized resolution is a strategic oversight, as Malabu Oil and Gas was reportedly excluded from the recent negotiation process at the Presidential Villa. Atiku argued that any agreement reached without the participation of a primary stakeholder raises significant questions regarding the legality and ethical transparency of the current administration's diplomatic efforts.

Criticism of Administrative Tactics and the Prioritization of Political Optics

The opposition leader further alleged that the handling of this case reflects a broader trend within the presidency of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where narrative control is prioritized over established due process. Atiku noted that a government choosing to ignore pending judicial matters demonstrates a disregard for the rule of law. By framing the development as part of a pattern of recklessness, the statement suggests that the executive branch is attempting to secure perceived victories at the expense of comprehensive legal and institutional accountability.