British prosecutors on Monday accused Diezani Alison-Madueke, Nigeria’s former Minister of Petroleum Resources and the first woman to serve as president of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), of financing an extravagant lifestyle with bribes allegedly received during her time in office.
Addressing the court in London, prosecutors told the judge that Alison-Madueke enjoyed what they described as a “life of luxury,” allegedly sustained by millions of dollars in corrupt payments linked to oil and gas contracts awarded while she oversaw Nigeria’s petroleum sector. The prosecution claimed the former minister used her powerful position to solicit and receive bribes, which were then spent on high-end properties, luxury goods, and other personal indulgences.
According to the prosecution, the case forms part of a wider investigation into alleged large-scale corruption within Nigeria’s oil industry during Alison-Madueke’s tenure. They argued that the funds were laundered through complex financial networks and shell companies to conceal their origin, enabling her to enjoy the proceeds without immediate detection.
Alison-Madueke, who served as petroleum minister from 2010 to 2015 under former President Goodluck Jonathan, has consistently denied all allegations of wrongdoing. Her legal team has maintained that she did not receive bribes and has insisted that the prosecution must prove its claims beyond reasonable doubt.
The trial marks a significant moment in one of the most high-profile corruption cases involving a former Nigerian government official, drawing international attention due to Alison-Madueke’s influential role in global energy politics and Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy.
Proceedings are expected to continue with detailed presentations of financial records, witness testimonies, and evidence tracing the alleged flow of funds. The outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for ongoing efforts by Nigerian and international authorities to recover assets and strengthen accountability in the management of public resources.
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