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Jurors Shown Luxury Spending in UK Bribery Trial of Ex-Nigerian Oil Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke

The case opens a 10–12 week examination of gifts prosecutors say were meant to secure influence.

Overview

  • Alison-Madueke faces five counts of accepting bribes and one count of conspiracy tied to 2011–2015, and she, Olatimbo Ayinde and Doye Agama have pleaded not guilty.
  • Prosecutors presented photos of UK properties they say she used at others’ expense, including The Falls in Gerrard's Cross and multimillion-pound London homes.
  • The court heard of perks such as about £2 million in Harrods purchases, six-figure spending at Mayfair retailers, £100,000 in cash, private jet flights and chauffeur-driven cars.
  • Jurors were told of recorded conversations with businessman Kolawole Aluko that prosecutors say referenced gifts and the nature of their alleged arrangement.
  • Proceedings initially saw a short adjournment over evidentiary and jury-selection issues, and the trial is expected to run for roughly 10 to 12 weeks.