Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, says he has forgiven all those responsible for his legal travails in connection with the controversial OPL245 oil block transaction.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at the public presentation of his memoir, OPL245: Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Nigerian Oil Block, Adoke stated that the book was written not out of bitterness, but as an effort to clarify misconceptions and offer an insider’s account of events surrounding one of Nigeria’s most contentious oil deals.
“I have forgiven everyone behind my ordeal,” he said. “This book is not intended to attack or vilify anyone, but to set the records straight.”
Adoke, who served under President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, was one of the key figures accused in the legal saga involving the granting of Oil Prospecting Licence 245 (OPL245) to oil giants Shell and Eni. The case, which attracted international attention, led to protracted investigations and trials in multiple jurisdictions.
Reflecting on his experience, Adoke said the trial tested his faith and resolve but strengthened his belief in justice and the power of truth. He emphasized that his decision to document the details in a memoir was driven by a desire to ensure that future generations understand the complexities and political undertones of the case.
“I wrote this book to provide context and facts—many of which were misrepresented or buried under layers of media and legal interpretations,” he said.
The event was attended by legal luminaries, public officials, scholars, and journalists. Many of the guests commended Adoke for his courage in telling his side of the story, describing the memoir as a significant contribution to Nigeria’s legal and political history.
Adoke concluded by calling for a more objective national conversation around governance, justice, and the rule of law, urging the media and public institutions to seek the truth beyond headlines and politics.
