UK authorities have formally accused former Nigerian minister Alison-Madueke of bribery.

The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) has pressed charges against Diezani Alison-Madueke, the former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum, for alleged involvement in bribery. The NCA’s website states that Alison-Madueke is accused of receiving bribes in exchange for granting lucrative oil and gas contracts. She is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on October 2 for these charges.

Andy Kelly, the head of the NCA’s International Corruption Unit, remarked that there is suspicion that Diezani Alison-Madueke misused her authority in Nigeria by accepting financial incentives in exchange for awarding high-value contracts. Kelly added that these charges mark a significant step in a comprehensive and intricate international investigation.

Diezani Alison-Madueke held a prominent role during the tenure of former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan. The 63-year-old, who previously served as the President of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), held the position of Nigeria’s petroleum minister from 2010 to 2015.