Diezani Alison-Madueke Denies Bribery Allegations in High-Profile UK Trial

Mon Apr 13 2026 18:41:03 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The former Nigerian oil minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, denies allegations involving bribery and corruption in a trial currently underway at Southwark Crown Court. She claims her luxury stays were legitimate and denies any misconduct.

Diezani Alison-Madueke, the former Nigerian oil minister, is on trial facing multiple counts of bribery. During recent court proceedings, she vehemently denied accepting bribes, asserting that any expenses were reimbursed by the Nigerian government. Alison-Madueke reminisced about her struggles against corruption during her tenure and claimed that substantial sums spent on her behalf were justified.

Background

Diezani Alison-Madueke, the former Nigerian oil minister accused of corruption, denied allegations regarding luxury home stays and lavish expenses during her tenure, asserting that she never accepted bribes.

Appearing at Southwark Crown Court, Alison-Madueke (65) insisted that she sought to combat corruption in Nigeria, stating, I have tried to push back on corruption in a country long plagued by it.

The Allegations

She is alleged to have received lavish gifts from Nigerian businessmen, including over £2 million spent at Harrods and £4.6 million on home refurbishments in London. However, she argued that any services provided during her official duties were duly reimbursed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC).

Defending Her Actions

In court, she declared, At no point did I ask for, take or receive a bribe and maintained her stance on acting impartially. Alison-Madueke clarified that NNPC covered the costs for her hotels and transport to facilitate her official functions.

Details of the Trial

The prosecution's case includes evidence regarding high-value properties, including a grand home in Buckinghamshire and exclusive apartments in St John's Wood that were funded by a businessman involved in the bribery scheme.

As the trial progresses, Alison-Madueke remains firm in her denial of wrongdoing, emphasizing that she was unaware of cash transactions concerning her and that her paperwork was meticulously managed by the state-owned NNPC.

What’s Next?

The court proceedings will continue with further evidence and testimonies as both sides present their cases regarding the multitude of serious charges against her and her co-defendants, including another oil executive and a family member.