Former Nigerian petroleum minister Diezani Alison-Madueke has told a London court she never took bribes and was unfairly targeted while attempting to reform Nigeria’s oil sector.
Testifying at Southwark Crown Court, she denied all allegations of misconduct, insisting she acted in good faith and became a scapegoat due to political and economic pressures.
She claimed she faced threats, including kidnapping incidents involving family members, and described Nigeria’s political environment as challenging, particularly for women in leadership.
Prosecutors allege she received luxury benefits from businessmen seeking influence, but she argued that many arrangements were part of official logistics handled by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.
The former minister also raised concerns over missing official records, which she said could support her defence and clarify the nature of transactions.
The trial continues as the court examines her claims alongside corruption charges under UK law.
