Former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has denied all allegations of bribery and abuse of office while testifying in an ongoing trial at Southwark Crown Court in London.
The high-profile case, which has drawn international attention, centers on accusations that she accepted financial benefits and luxury privileges in exchange for awarding oil contracts. Alison-Madueke told the court she “never asked for, took, or received any bribe,” maintaining her innocence as she opened her defense.
Facing six counts of bribery and conspiracy, the former minister rejected all charges under oath. She insisted that she did not misuse her position at any point during her tenure.
Prosecutors allege that several Nigerian businessmen funded lavish expenditures on her behalf, including luxury shopping trips and high-end real estate. Among the claims presented in court are allegations that more than £2 million was spent at Harrods, along with millions more on properties in London and surrounding areas.
The properties cited include a £2.8 million residence in Marylebone, as well as homes in Buckinghamshire and apartments in St John’s Wood. These assets, according to the prosecution, were linked to benefits she received while in office.
In response, Alison-Madueke argued that the financial arrangements tied to her official duties were handled through complex systems within Nigeria’s oil sector. She described the structure as “messy” and said third-party service providers often managed logistics and expenses.
She also defended the use of private residences, stating they were sometimes more cost-effective than hotel accommodations, which could cost up to £2,000 per night. According to her testimony, such arrangements were practical rather than excessive.
A central element of her defense is her claim that the minister of petroleum resources did not have sole authority over oil contract decisions. Alison-Madueke told the court that the role was largely procedural.
“The minister is just a rubber stamp,” she said, emphasizing that decisions were made by committees and institutional frameworks within the Nigerian National Petroleum Company. This assertion challenges the prosecution’s argument that she had direct influence over lucrative contracts.
The trial also examined allegations of a £100,000 cash delivery to her London residence. Alison-Madueke denied any knowledge of the payment, stating she only became aware of it during the legal proceedings.
Additionally, her brother, Doye Agama, and oil executive Olatimbo Ayinde are facing related charges in connection with the case. Both individuals have also denied the allegations against them.
The court heard further claims regarding the use of UK properties by Alison-Madueke’s family during both official engagements and private visits. She maintained that these arrangements were either not made by her or were connected to official duties.
Beyond the financial allegations, Alison-Madueke used her testimony to highlight the challenges she faced while serving in Nigeria’s government. She described the country as a “very patriarchal society” and said her position as a female minister exposed her to threats.
She told the court that she faced serious security risks, including kidnapping threats involving her family members. Her remarks introduced a broader context to the case, touching on gender dynamics and political pressures during her time in office.
The trial continues to unfold as prosecutors present evidence aimed at establishing a pattern of systemic bribery. The proceedings are being closely watched due to their implications for anti-corruption efforts, particularly within Nigeria’s oil industry.
If convicted, Alison-Madueke could face significant prison time under UK law, as well as potential asset forfeiture. For now, she maintains that all allegations are unfounded and that her actions were carried out within the scope of her official responsibilities.
The court is expected to hear further testimony and review additional evidence as the case progresses.
