Oil tycoons deny paying bribes to former Nigerian minister
Two oil executives, Kevin Okyere and Igho Sanomi, have denied bribing former Nigerian oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke, with their statements read in Southwark Crown Court. Alison-Madueke, who faces charges of accepting bribes and conspiracy, claims all expenses incurred on her behalf were reimbursed. Former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan supported her account, stating third-party payments for ministers were common and repayable. The trial continues, with Alison-Madueke and three others pleading not guilty to various bribery-related charges.
- ▪Kevin Okyere stated he paid £3,900 for items bought by Alison-Madueke at Peter Jones, which she later repaid in cash.
- ▪Igho Sanomi claimed he obtained items for Alison-Madueke in London due to foreign exchange difficulties and that all costs were reimbursed.
- ▪Former president Goodluck Jonathan said third-party payments for ministers on official duties were normal and often repaid.
- ▪Alison-Madueke denied benefiting from oil executives and said she never influenced contract awards.
- ▪The prosecution alleges luxury purchases, private jets, and property use were part of a bribery scheme involving the former minister.
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Oil tycoons deny paying bribes to former Nigerian minister14 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleSteve SwannSouthwark Crown CourtReutersFormer oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke denies the charges against herTwo oil executives have denied paying bribes to former Nigerian oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke, a court has been told.Statements made by Kevin Okyere and Igho Sanomi to UK investigators were read out in Southwark Crown Court on Tuesday.The men are part of a group of industry insiders who are alleged to have bankrolled spending sprees and luxury home stays by Alison-Madueke, 65. None of them have been charged in this case and they have not appeared in person at court.Alison-Madueke denies five counts of accepting bribes and a charge of conspiracy to commit bribery.
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