Former Oil Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke Appears in UK Court before Corruption trial

Former Nigerian oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke appeared in a London court on Monday as the early stages of her bribery trial began.

The court is currently dealing with preparation matters, such as technical issues and choosing a jury. Alison-Madueke was present in court during these proceedings.

She served as Nigeria’s oil minister from 2010 to 2015 and made history as both the country’s first female oil minister and the first woman to lead OPEC, the global oil group.

Now 65, Alison-Madueke has been on bail since she was arrested in London in October 2015. She denies all six bribery charges against her.

In 2023, the UK’s National Crime Agency formally charged her, accusing her of accepting bribes while she was in office between 2011 and 2015. Investigators say she abused her position by taking money and expensive benefits in exchange for approving large oil contracts.

Prosecutors claim she received at least £100,000 in cash, luxury car services, private jet flights, and access to several properties in London. The charges also include claims that she benefited from home renovations, furniture, paid staff, private school fees, and luxury gifts from designer brands like Louis Vuitton.

Her full trial is set to begin on Monday, January 26, and is expected to last between 10 and 12 weeks.

Two other people are also facing bribery charges linked to the case. One appeared in court by video link, while the other was present in person.