The long-awaited corruption trial of Diezani Alison-Madueke is set to begin in London.
The development has come as a moment in Nigeria’s long-running battle with high-level corruption.
Once one of Africa’s most powerful oil figures, the former minister will now face a UK court.
The trial, scheduled to open on Monday, January 26, places Alison-Madueke at the centre of serious bribery claims.
She is accused of accepting illicit benefits during her time as Nigeria’s minister of petroleum resources.
The alleged offences relate to events that occurred between 2010 and 2015.
Prosecutors have alleged that the former minister received “financial or other advantages” linked to energy firms.
These benefits were said to include luxury London homes, property renovations, and staff expenses.
Moreover, claims also mention chauffeur-driven cars, private jet flights, and £100,000 in cash.
In addition, further accusations point to luxury shopping and school fee payments.
Items from stores such as Harrods and Louis Vuitton were allegedly provided.
According to the indictment, these actions amounted to the “improper performance” of public duty.
The Diezani Alison-Madueke corruption trial is expected to last up to 12 weeks. Meanwhile, jury selection and technical hearings were completed in London last week.
Two other defendants, Doye Agama and Olatimbo Ayinde, are also standing trial.
Alison-Madueke has denied all allegations since her arrest in 2015. She has remained on bail throughout the lengthy investigation period.
However, in 2023, formal charges were filed by the UK’s National Crime Agency.
At the time, the agency said, “We suspect Diezani Alison-Madueke abused her power in Nigeria and accepted financial rewards for awarding multi-million-pound contracts.”
Furthermore, evidence was shared with US authorities, leading to major asset recoveries.
Recovered assets reportedly included luxury US properties and a superyacht.
The case marks a dramatic fall for a woman once seen as a symbol of progress.
In 2014, she made history as OPEC’s first female president.
Therefore, the trial is being closely watched both locally and internationally.
Born in Port Harcourt, Alison-Madueke built her early career in the oil sector. She later moved into politics, serving under Presidents Yar’Adua and Jonathan.
Her rise was rapid, yet her downfall has been equally striking.
