Proceedings in the alleged corruption trial of former Nigerian Petroleum Minister and ex-OPEC President, Diezani Alison-Madueke, were halted on Monday at the Crown Court in Southwark after technical issues linked to the absence of internet access disrupted the hearing.
Prosecutors informed the court that they were unable to deliver their opening statement as scheduled because of the internet failure, leading to a temporary halt in proceedings. The court was told that the opening address would now be presented when the matter resumes on Tuesday.
A source in Court 4 said no substantive progress was made before Mrs Justice Thornton, as the lack of connectivity prevented the prosecution from proceeding with its case.
Alison-Madueke, 65, who is standing trial alongside two co-defendants, was seen arriving at and later leaving the courtroom dressed in blue trousers and using a walking stick. There was no official clarification on whether the walking aid was for medical reasons.
The former minister was physically present in court last week as preliminary proceedings commenced ahead of the full trial.
Alison-Madueke, who served as Nigeria’s petroleum minister from 2010 to 2015 under former President Goodluck Jonathan, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. She is facing multiple counts of alleged bribery connected to her time in office.
In 2023, the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA) formally charged her, alleging that she accepted bribes between 2011 and 2015 in exchange for influence over oil-related contracts in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
Prosecutors allege that she benefitted from at least £100,000 in cash and a range of luxury advantages, including chauffeur-driven vehicles, private jet flights, high-end properties in London, expensive furniture, property renovations, household staff services, private school fees, and designer items from luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton.
The trial, expected to last between 10 and 12 weeks, will involve testimony from multiple witnesses and detailed examination of financial records and property transactions.
Two other defendants, Doye Agama, who appeared via video link, and Olatimbo Ayinde, who was physically present in court, are also facing bribery charges connected to the case.
SAHARAREPORTS