Ex-Nigerian oil minister denies taking bribes
Former Nigerian Oil Minister Refutes Bribery Allegations
A retired Nigerian oil minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, 65, has rejected claims that she accepted bribes in exchange for securing government contracts. During a hearing at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, she stated that the costly accommodations and expenditures she experienced while in the UK were fully reimbursed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). Alison-Madueke emphasized her commitment to combating corruption, which she described as deeply rooted in Nigeria since its colonial era.
Accusations and Rebuttals
The prosecution alleges that Alison-Madueke was provided access to multiple high-value properties in London and Buckinghamshire, including a £2.8 million residence in Marylebone and homes with renovation costs exceeding £4.6 million. However, she argued that these expenses were incurred during her official duties and later covered by the state-owned NNPC. She further explained that a London-based firm was established to manage logistical arrangements due to the NNPC’s unstable financial structure.
“I can confirm without hesitation that I never sought, received, or accepted any form of bribe from these individuals. I consistently aimed to act with fairness and integrity,” Alison-Madueke asserted in court.
Alison-Madueke highlighted that her family’s stay in St John’s Wood, where her mother was also present, was funded by Nigerian businessman Kolawole Aluko. She claimed this arrangement was more economical than paying for high-end hotel suites, which cost £2,000 per night. The court was also informed that one of her drivers handed over £100,000 in cash, though she insisted this had no connection to her actions.
Professional Journey and Personal Challenges
During her tenure at Shell, Alison-Madueke ascended to a senior leadership role, becoming the first woman to hold such a position in the company’s Nigerian operations. Despite this achievement, she admitted to finding the job uncomfortable, citing her father’s past experiences with Shell. Her father, a tribal leader, had previously challenged the company over its practices in the Niger Delta, accusing it of apartheid-like treatment.
Alison-Madueke described the company’s struggles with oil spills in her hometown, which she felt were not adequately addressed. She also mentioned the risks she faced in Nigeria, where she claimed she was under severe threats of kidnapping and her family members were detained. These challenges, she said, influenced her decision to pursue a career in the oil sector despite her reservations.
Broader Legal Context
The trial also involves Olatimbo Ayinde, 54, an oil industry executive who denies one count of bribery and another of bribing a foreign public official. Alison-Madueke’s brother, former archbishop Doye Agama, 69, is also on trial, though he has not yet been charged. The case against Alison-Madueke includes five bribery charges and one count of conspiracy to accept bribes.
In 2015, she made history by becoming the first woman to lead the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), a group responsible for oil production decisions. Yet, even as she achieved these milestones, the allegations of corruption continued to cast doubt on her career. She has consistently maintained that her actions were transparent and aligned with public interest.
