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The long-running corruption case involving Nigeria’s former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, entered a new phase on Monday as trial proceedings commenced at a London court, marking a significant moment in the global pursuit of accountability over alleged large-scale financial crimes linked to Nigeria’s oil sector.
British prosecutors allege that Alison-Madueke, who served as petroleum minister between 2010 and 2015, accepted substantial bribes in exchange for awarding lucrative oil contracts. The charges, brought by the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), are connected to a wider international investigation into money laundering and corruption involving politically exposed persons.
According to court filings, the former minister is accused of using intermediaries and shell companies to receive illicit payments, which were allegedly laundered through international financial systems, including properties and bank accounts in the United Kingdom. Prosecutors contend that the funds originated from inflated oil contracts and strategic energy deals during her tenure.
Alison-Madueke, who was not physically present in court, has consistently denied all allegations of wrongdoing. Her legal team maintains that the accusations are politically motivated and insists that the prosecution has failed to establish a direct link between her actions as minister and the alleged financial transactions.
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Nigerian authorities have followed the case closely, as it complements ongoing asset recovery efforts by the Federal Government. Several luxury properties and high-value assets linked to the former minister have already been seized or forfeited in Nigeria and abroad following previous court rulings.
Anti-corruption advocates say the trial underscores growing international cooperation in tackling transnational corruption, particularly cases involving public officials from developing economies. They argue that the outcome could have far-reaching implications for future asset recovery and deterrence.
The trial is expected to run for several weeks, with witnesses from multiple jurisdictions scheduled to testify. Legal analysts say the case could set an important precedent for prosecuting foreign corruption offences in UK courts.
