The former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke, has been charged with bribery offenses by British police. The charges are the result of an international investigation led by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA).
Alison-Madueke is accused of accepting bribes in exchange for awarding multi-million-pound oil and gas contracts during her tenure as minister from 2010 to 2015. The charges also allege that she benefited from various forms of luxury and financial rewards, such as cash, chauffeur-driven cars, private jet flights, and luxury holidays for her family.
Alison-Madueke, who also served as the president of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), is accused of abusing her power for personal gain. She is the first former Nigerian minister to be charged with corruption in the UK.
The NCA said that the charges were a “significant development” in its investigation into corruption in the Nigerian oil industry. The agency said that it would continue to work with its international partners to bring those responsible to justice.
Alison-Madueke is currently living in the UK. She has denied the charges against her. Her lawyer said that she would “vigorously contest” the charges.
The charges against Alison-Madueke are a major blow to Nigeria’s efforts to combat corruption. They also highlight the need for greater transparency and accountability in the country’s oil industry.
The case is expected to be heard in the UK courts in the coming months.
