Former Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke has opened her defence at Southwark Crown Court in London, denying allegations of bribery.
Alison-Madueke who is facing six counts under the UK Bribery Act, told the court she never abused her office or solicited bribes.
“I did not abuse my office at all. I did not ask, seek or solicit bribes,” she said while appearing at the court in the early hours of the day.
Alison-Madueke rejected claims that she received financial advantages from oil businessmen in exchange for favours.
She said any benefits linked to her were either reimbursed or misrepresented, stressing that she had limited authority over the award of oil contracts.
“The minister is just a rubber stamp,” she said, noting that key decisions were made by committees and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.
Alison-Madueke said her role was limited to formal approval, but she however, admitted to using London properties and accepting travel arrangements funded by associates.
She said such expenses were either reimbursed or handled through official channels.
Alison-Madueke denied knowledge of an alleged £100,000 cash delivery to her London residence, adding that she only became aware of the claim during trial disclosures.
The former minister also cited cultural practices to explain some of the arrangements, revealing that support from associates and gift-giving are common within Nigeria’s political and social system.
Alison-Madueke added that weak financial controls in the NNPC’s London office contributed to the use of third-party arrangements.
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