Former Nigerian Oil Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke Stands Trial in UK Over Corruption Allegations

 

Former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources Diezani Alison-Madueke is facing a high-profile corruption trial in the United Kingdom, marking a significant moment in one of the most closely watched cases linked to Nigeria’s oil sector.

The trial, which began in January 2026 at Southwark Crown Court in London, centres on allegations that Alison-Madueke accepted bribes while serving as Nigeria’s oil minister between 2011 and 2015. British prosecutors have charged her with five counts of bribery and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery, all of which she has denied.

Alison-Madueke, who also served briefly as President of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), is accused of receiving extensive personal benefits from individuals and companies seeking favourable treatment in Nigeria’s lucrative oil and gas industry. Prosecutors allege that these benefits were offered in exchange for influence over contracts involving Nigeria’s state-owned oil institutions.

According to the prosecution, the alleged bribes took the form of luxury goods, large shopping expenditures, private jet flights, chauffeur-driven vehicles, and the use and refurbishment of high-value properties in the UK. The court also heard claims that cash payments, school fees, household expenses, and salaries for domestic staff were allegedly covered by business figures with interests in Nigerian oil contracts.

While prosecutors have acknowledged that there is no direct evidence showing Alison-Madueke personally awarded specific contracts as a result of these benefits, they argue that the acceptance of such gifts by a public official constituted corruption, given the clear business interests of those providing them.

Two other defendants are standing trial alongside the former minister: Olatimbo Ayinde, an oil executive, and Doye Agama, her brother. Both have pleaded not guilty to related charges.

Alison-Madueke was first arrested in London in October 2015, shortly after leaving office, and has remained on bail since then. Formal charges were later brought by the UK’s National Crime Agency, following years of investigation into alleged financial misconduct connected to Nigeria’s oil sector.

Outside the courtroom, the case has drawn significant attention in Nigeria and beyond, reviving long-running debates over corruption, accountability, and the management of natural resources. Analysts say the trial underscores the growing role of international courts in prosecuting alleged financial crimes linked to developing economies.

The trial is expected to continue for several weeks. Whatever the final verdict, the proceedings represent a landmark moment in efforts to address alleged corruption tied to one of Africa’s most important economic sectors.