Nigeria Admiral Madueke Seeks Court Order to Stop Ex-Wife Diezani Using His Name

Admiral Alison Madueke files court petition to prevent ex-wife Diezani from using his name post-divorce. He cites reputational damage due to her ongoing corruption trials. Madueke seeks a legal declaration ending their marriage and compelling Diezani to revert to her maiden name, highlighting complexities in high-profile divorces.

Former Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Alison Amaechina Madueke has initiated legal proceedings against his ex-wife, Diezani Alison-Madueke, in the Lagos State High Court. The admiral is seeking to formally end their marriage and prevent Diezani from continuing to use his name.

Madueke's petition for jactitation of marriage requests that the court order the former Minister of Petroleum Resources to revert to her maiden name, Agama. He argues that Diezani's ongoing use of his name, despite their marriage being legally dissolved, damages his reputation and could lead to unintended consequences, particularly given the corruption allegations against her.

The couple married in 1999, but Diezani filed for divorce in November 2021 at the Nassarawa State High Court, citing irreconcilable differences. The divorce was granted in April 2022. However, Madueke claims that Diezani has continued to use his name without justification or consent.

Madueke's legal team served Diezani with a formal request in December 2023 to cease using his surname, but she reportedly has not complied. The admiral expresses concern that Diezani's ongoing legal troubles in Nigeria and the UK could negatively impact his public image if she continues to be associated with his name.

The petition seeks a court order restraining Diezani from using Madueke's name and asserting any ongoing marital relationship. Additionally, Madueke requests that the court compel Diezani to publicly announce in national newspapers in Nigeria and the UK that she has ceased using his surname.