Four prosecution witnesses have given evidence from Nigeria in the ongoing corruption trial of former Nigerian Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke at the Southwark Crown Court in London, the United Kingdom.
The testimonies were heard on Wednesday, February 25, at a session held at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice James Omotosho presided. The witnesses, whose names were withheld, testified by video link under the provisions of the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act, 2018, following a request by UK authorities. Judges, jurors and the defendants in London participated in the proceedings virtually.
The case, listed as CS/72/2026, involves charges against Mrs. Alison-Madueke, Ayinde Olatimbo Bukola and Agama Doye. Mrs. Alison-Madueke, who served as Nigeria’s Minister of Petroleum Resources from 2010 to 2015, has pleaded not guilty to six counts of accepting bribes and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery linked to oil and gas contract awards during her tenure.
British prosecutors allege that the ex-minister received at least £100,000 in cash and a range of other benefits, including private-jet flights, chauffeur-driven cars, luxury goods, and the use of London property. She has denied all allegations.
The trial, which began on January 26, 2026, is expected to last 10 to 12 weeks. After Wednesday’s testimonies, proceedings were adjourned until Thursday to hear evidence from two more witnesses. If convicted under the UK Bribery Act, Mrs. Alison-Madueke could face up to 10 years in prison and an unlimited fine.
