Diezani Alison-Madueke Denies Bribery Charges in UK Trial
• This Day • Politics
Diezani Alison-Madueke, the former Nigerian Petroleum Minister, opened her defense at Southwark Crown Court in London, firmly denying all six counts of bribery under the UK Bribery Act. This marked her first time taking the stand, where she asserted that she did not abuse her office or solicit bribes. Alison-Madueke rejected allegations of receiving financial advantages from oil businessmen in exchange for favorable treatment, insisting that any benefits were grossly misrepresented. She characterized her role in awarding oil contracts as merely ceremonial, stating that decisions were made by a committee at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and that her formal approval was limited. While she acknowledged accepting travel arrangements and private flights, she maintained that these expenses were handled through official channels and not for personal gain. Additionally, she denied knowledge of a £100,000 cash delivery to her London residence, claiming she became aware of this only during the trial.
Topics: Corruption, Legal