By Aisosa Handsome Agbondimwin
The United Kingdom has brought charges against Diezani Alison-Madueke, Nigeria’s former Minister of Petroleum Resources, over bribery allegation.
This move was said to have followed a comprehensive investigation carried out by the National Crime Agency in the UK.
Diezani, aged 63, a prominent Nigerian politician with a notable history in the country’s petroleum sector, also served as the president of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) from 2014 to 2015.
The charges against Alison-Madueke are specifically related to have benefited from a sum of at least £100,000 in cash, as well as enjoying the privileges of chauffeur-driven cars, flights on private jets, luxury holidays for her family, and the utilization of multiple London properties.
Her charges also include financial rewards, such as furniture, renovation work, and staff for the properties.
Additionally, she allegedly receives payment for private school fees and receives gifts from high-end designer shops, such as Cartier jewellery and Louis Vuitton goods, which is a serious offense with significant legal consequences.
The United Kingdom’s decision to pursue this case highlights the gravity of the allegations and the resolve to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
During Alison-Madueke’s tenure as Nigeria’s minister of petroleum resources, there were numerous controversies and allegations of corruption surrounding her.
Reacting to the allegations, Head of the NCA’s International Corruption Unit (ICU), said: “We suspect Diezani Alison-Madueke abused her power in Nigeria and accepted financial rewards for awarding multi-million pound contracts These charges are a milestone in what has been a thorough and complex international investigation.”
She is to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on 2 October, 2023.
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