Introduction to the Documentary
The forthcoming documentary film ‘Is it Your Money?’ is expected to make waves as it explores the complex and controversial life of Diezani Alison-Madueke, Nigeria’s former Minister of Petroleum Resources. The film promises to shed light on the numerous allegations of corruption that have marred her career. Set to premiere later this year, the documentary is already being termed as the biggest-budget docu-series ever produced in Nigeria.
The Journey of Production
The film has been in the making for over two years, a testament to its complexity and scale. A team of over 100 professionals has meticulously worked to ensure a high level of production quality. The documentary has been shot across three countries and eight cities, an effort that underlines its ambition to provide a comprehensive view of Alison-Madueke’s alleged corrupt activities.
International Collaboration and Insights
One of the highlights of ‘Is it Your Money?’ is its exclusive collaborations with investigative bodies such as the FBI, the MET Police, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). These entities have provided unprecedented access to their investigations, adding a level of credibility and depth to the documentary.
Diezani Alison-Madueke: A Monument to Many Firsts
Diezani Alison-Madueke has had a trailblazing career. She holds the distinction of being the first woman to serve as Nigeria’s Minister of Petroleum Resources, a position that put her at the helm of one of the country’s most crucial sectors. She also made history as the first female president of OPEC, and held various influential roles, such as Minister of Transportation and board member of Shell Petroleum Development Company Nigeria.
The Allegations That Taint Her Legacy
However, her career has been overshadowed by serious corruption allegations. The EFCC and the UK’s National Crime Agency have charged her with multiple counts of corrupt practices, including awarding multi-million-pound contracts in exchange for financial rewards. The documentary delves into these allegations, exploring the luxurious lifestyle that she allegedly funded through corrupt dealings.
The Detailed Investigative Narrative
‘Is it Your Money?’ traces confirmed and alleged loot across 15 jurisdictions, painting a vivid picture of the extent of the corruption. The narrative is enriched by interviews and exclusive footage of investigators as they uncover how these funds were moved and laundered globally.
Exclusive Access and Rare Footage
The film will feature rare access to key figures in the investigation. Audiences will hear from experts and see never-before-seen footage that chronicles the breadth of the corruption. This unprecedented access sets the documentary apart from other journalistic endeavors.
The Courtroom Drama
The documentary also captures the ongoing legal battles. In 2023, Alison-Madueke appeared in court in the UK, where she was granted £70,000 bail. The courtroom scenes provide a gripping aspect to the narrative, offering real-time updates on her legal journey.
The Production Team Behind the Film
The documentary is co-produced by Judith Audu, Eromo Egbejule, and Jideonwo, and executive produced by Jideonwo, Mfon Ekpo, ‘Yemi Adamolekun, Mojolaoluwa Aderemi-Makinde, and Capital Film Productions. This powerhouse team has utilized their expertise to create a compelling and thorough documentation of one of Nigeria’s most controversial figures.
What to Expect
As the premiere of ‘Is it Your Money?’ draws near, there is an air of anticipation. The film is expected to spark conversations and perhaps even debate. Its objective stance and deep-dive investigation could change public perception and bring new insights into Alison-Madueke’s case.