Former Nigerian Naval Chief Seeks Court Order to Stop Ex-Wife from Using His Name
Retired Rear Admiral Alison Madueke has petitioned the Lagos State High Court to prevent his ex-wife, former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke, from using his surname. In his petition for jactitation of marriage, Madueke argued that Diezani’s continued use of his name despite their divorce being legally finalized in April 2022 is damaging his reputation and could lead to unintended consequences.
Marriage and Divorce Details
Madueke, who previously served as the military governor of Anambra and Imo states, married Diezani in 1999 under the Marriage Act. Their marriage produced one child. Diezani filed for divorce in November 2021, citing an irreconcilable breakdown of the union, and the court granted the dissolution in April 2022.
Diezani’s Persistent Use of Madueke’s Name
Despite the legal finalization of their divorce, Diezani has continued using Madueke’s first name (Alison) and surname (Madueke) without his consent, which he says has caused him embarrassment for over two years. Madueke stated that he directed his lawyers to formally request Diezani to stop using his name and revert to her maiden surname of Agama, but she has failed to respond.
Corruption Allegations and Ongoing Trials
Madueke highlighted that Diezani is currently undergoing criminal trials in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom over allegations of corruption and financial misconduct during her tenure as Petroleum Minister from 2010 to 2015. He argued that Diezani’s continued use of his name misleads the public and tarnishes his reputation and poses a significant risk of legal and financial harm to him.
Madueke’s Requests to the Court
Madueke is seeking a perpetual injunction to prevent Diezani from using his name, as well as a court order compelling her to revert to her maiden surname and publicly announce the change in both Nigeria and the UK.
