“I never took a bribe”: Diezani Alison-Madueke breaks silence as UK Court trial takes dramatic turn

Former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has firmly denied all allegations of bribery and abuse of office while testifying in a high-profile trial at the Southwark Crown Court in the United Kingdom.

The proceedings, which have drawn international attention, mark a critical phase in one of Nigeria’s most closely watched corruption cases, with the former minister insisting she “never asked for, took, or received any bribe.”

Diezani Opens Defence, Rejects All Six Bribery Counts

Appearing before the London court, Alison-Madueke rejected six counts of bribery and conspiracy, maintaining her innocence under oath.

“I did not abuse my office at all. I did not ask, seek or solicit bribes,” she told the court, setting the tone for her defence.

The prosecution alleges that several Nigerian businessmen provided financial benefits and luxury privileges in exchange for preferential treatment in oil contracts. However, Alison-Madueke countered that any expenses linked to her official duties were reimbursed through the Nigerian government’s oil system.

Her legal team argued that the allegations have been “grossly misrepresented”, emphasizing that her role as minister did not grant her unilateral authority over contract awards.

Luxury Spending Claims: Harrods, Properties and Travel Under Scrutiny

A major focal point of the trial is the prosecution’s claim that over £2 million was spent at luxury retailer Harrods, alongside millions more on high-end properties in London and Buckinghamshire.

Prosecutors also cited:

• A £2.8 million property in Marylebone
• Residences in Buckinghamshire
• Luxury apartments in St John’s Wood

In response, Alison-Madueke explained that such arrangements were often logistical provisions tied to official duties, handled by third-party service providers due to what she described as a “messy financial structure” within the Nigerian National Petroleum Company.

She added that using private residences was sometimes more cost-effective than hotel stays costing up to £2,000 per night.

Role in NNPC and Oil Contracts: ‘Minister Was a Rubber Stamp’

In a significant revelation, Alison-Madueke described her role within the as largely procedural.

“The minister is just a rubber stamp,” she told the court, arguing that key decisions were made by committees and institutional frameworks, not by her personally.

This claim directly challenges the prosecution’s assertion that she used her office to influence lucrative oil deals.

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Alleged Cash Delivery and Family Involvement

The court also heard allegations of a £100,000 cash delivery to her London residence. Alison-Madueke denied any knowledge of the transaction, stating she only became aware of it during trial disclosures.

Additionally, her brother, Doye Agama, and oil executive Olatimbo Ayinde are also facing related charges, both of which they have denied.

The case further examined her family’s stay in UK properties during official and holiday periods, which she insisted were either not arranged by her or were part of official engagements.

Security Concerns and Gender Barriers in Nigerian Politics

Alison-Madueke also used her testimony to highlight security threats and gender challenges she faced while in office.

She described Nigeria as a “very patriarchal society”, noting that her position as a female minister made her a target for threats, including kidnapping attempts involving family members.

Her remarks add a socio-political dimension to the trial, framing her tenure within the broader context of gender inequality and political pressure.

Trial Continues as Global Attention Grows

The ongoing trial in the UK remains a significant legal and political development, with implications for anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria’s oil sector.

As proceedings continue, the court is expected to examine further evidence and testimonies that will determine whether the prosecution can substantiate claims of systemic bribery and abuse of office.

For now, Alison-Madueke maintains her stance: all allegations are unfounded, and her actions were within the bounds of official responsibility.

FAQ

Who is Diezani Alison-Madueke?

Diezani Alison-Madueke is a former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources and a key figure in Nigeria’s oil sector, currently standing trial in the UK over bribery allegations.

What charges is Diezani facing in the UK?

She faces six counts of bribery and conspiracy to commit bribery under UK law, relating to alleged financial benefits from businessmen.

Did Diezani admit to taking bribes?

No. She has categorically denied all allegations, stating she never solicited or received any bribe.

What is the Harrods spending controversy?

Prosecutors allege over £2 million was spent at Harrods on her behalf. She claims such expenses were either reimbursed or misrepresented.

What role did NNPC play in the case?

She argued that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company handled financial logistics and contract processes, limiting her personal control.

Did Diezani influence oil contracts?

She denies this, stating that decisions were made by committees, not by her as minister.

What about the alleged £100,000 cash delivery?

She denied any knowledge of the cash, saying she only learned about it during trial proceedings.

Where is the trial taking place?

The trial is ongoing at the Southwark Crown Court in London.

What could happen if she is found guilty?

If convicted, she could face significant prison time under UK bribery laws, along with asset forfeiture.

Why is this case important?

The case is seen as a major test of international anti-corruption enforcement, particularly involving Nigeria’s oil sector.