Diezani denies bribery allegations as former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, told a London court that she never solicited or accepted bribes during her time in office. The statement forms part of her defence in an ongoing corruption trial in the United Kingdom.
Diezani Alison-Madueke served as Nigeria’s petroleum minister from 2010 to 2015 under former President Goodluck Jonathan. She was also the first female president of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
In 2023, UK authorities charged her with multiple counts of bribery and conspiracy to commit bribery linked to her tenure in Nigeria’s oil sector. The case is being heard at Southwark Crown Court in London, where she has remained on bail since her arrest in 2015.
The charges relate to alleged benefits received from individuals and companies connected to oil contracts with Nigeria’s state-owned petroleum entities. During proceedings, Diezani denies bribery allegations, stating clearly before the court: “At no time did I ask for, take, or seek a bribe or bribes of any sort.”
She further told the court that she “did not abuse” her position while overseeing Nigeria’s oil sector and maintained that her actions were carried out within the scope of official duties.
Prosecutors, however, allege that she benefited from luxury properties, private jet travel, chauffeur-driven services, and high-value shopping funded by individuals seeking favourable treatment in oil contracts.
The court also heard claims that significant sums, including about £100,000 in cash, were linked to the alleged transactions during her tenure.
Responding to these claims, Alison-Madueke stated that logistical arrangements and expenses related to her official duties were handled through appropriate government channels and reimbursed where necessary.
In her defence, she emphasised that her conduct remained impartial throughout her time in office, rejecting any suggestion that she used her position to influence contract awards for personal benefit.
Diezani denies bribery allegations highlights one of the most high-profile corruption trials involving a former Nigerian public official. The case draws attention to accountability in the management of Nigeria’s oil sector, a critical component of the national economy.
The proceedings may also influence broader discussions on governance, transparency, and international cooperation in prosecuting financial crimes involving public officials.
For Nigeria, the case underscores ongoing scrutiny of past public office holders and reinforces the role of global legal systems in addressing corruption-related allegations.
