Nigeria’s political and intellectual class gathered in force at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, Nigeria, to celebrate the official launch of OPL 245: Inside the Story of the $1.3BN Nigerian Oil Block, the latest work by former Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN. The event drew a broad cross-section of dignitaries, including senior public officials, diplomats, legal luminaries, technocrats, and statespersons, underlining the weight and relevance of both the author and the subject matter.
Held at one of Abuja’s most iconic venues, the atmosphere was charged with reflection, admiration, and intense curiosity. The turnout reaffirmed the importance of the story being told, a controversial oil deal that once dominated international headlines, triggered global investigations, and placed Nigeria at the heart of a legal and ethical storm.
The launch was marked by the presence of some of the most influential figures in Nigeria’s political and governance landscape, affirming the gravity and national relevance of the occasion. The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, led the high-level attendance, joined by former President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR (represented by Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, GCON), Oyo State Governor, H.E. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, and the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi. Also in attendance were Prince Ade Omole, Diaspora Leader; Dr. Ruqayya Ahmed, Hon Oyinkansola Okewoye, Alhaji Abdulrasaq Danjuma, Ms Hadiza Bala Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy & Coordination and Head Central Delivery Coordination Unit, Dr. Aliyu Modibbo Umar, Special Adviser to the President on General Duties; Hajiya Maryam Salihu Ibrahim, and former Information Minister, Chief Lai Mohammed. The event drew further prestige with the presence of former governors Dr. Bukola Saraki, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Alongside them were members of the diplomatic corps, thought leaders, and policy stakeholders, collectively creating an atmosphere that transcended a mere book unveiling, transforming it into a powerful convergence of authority, insight, and national introspection.
Speaking at the event, the Vice President commended Adoke for his courage and intellectual contribution to the ongoing discourse on governance and justice. He remarked that public office demands integrity, even in the face of adversity, and that history ultimately vindicates those who serve with a clear conscience.
The book launch served as more than a literary unveiling; it became a moment of national reflection. As the applause echoed through the Yar’Adua Centre, it was evident that the story of OPL 245 and the man who lived it would remain part of Nigeria’s contemporary political and legal discourse for years to come.
Through vivid storytelling and personal introspection, the author chronicles the complex interplay of power, politics, media trials, and global scrutiny. It is a story of reputation, resilience, and the harsh price of public service, told by a man who stood at the eye of the storm.
Abuja, Nigeria.
10/07/25.
