Former Nigerian Petroleum Minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, is currently giving evidence at Southwark Crown Court in London, where she is facing allegations of receiving bribes exceeding £11.5 million.
The Take It Back Movement has rejected her claim that she is being unfairly targeted, insisting instead that the case reflects the alleged misappropriation of Nigeria’s resources and the hardship endured by its citizens.
During proceedings on Monday, Alison-Madueke denied the bribery and abuse of office charges, arguing that she is a victim of a system she described as patriarchal and biased against women.
Prosecutors, however, allege that several Nigerian businessmen financed her luxury lifestyle, including over £2 million spent at Harrods and approximately £4.6 million used to renovate properties in London and Buckinghamshire. They also claim she had access to high-value assets such as a £2.8 million residence in Marylebone and other upscale properties.
In response, the Take It Back Movement dismissed her defence, stating that corruption is not defined by gender and should be treated as a crime against the Nigerian people regardless of who commits it. The group criticised her explanations for the expenditures, describing them as dismissive of public intelligence.
The organisation stressed that the real victims are ordinary Nigerians who have been deprived of essential services such as healthcare, education, and electricity, while national wealth was allegedly diverted into luxury spending abroad.
It also voiced support for the prosecution in the United Kingdom, arguing that local institutions in Nigeria have often failed to hold powerful individuals accountable. The group described the alleged bribes—including private jet use, chauffeur services, and large cash sums—as deeply offensive to struggling citizens.
The group outlined key demands, including the full seizure of any illicit assets, strict penalties if guilt is established, and transparent return of recovered funds to projects that directly benefit Nigerians. It also called for accountability in the handling of funds allegedly linked to her associates.
Describing the case as symbolic of a wider system of corruption, the group said the trial represents more than an individual prosecution, but a test of accountability within governance structures. It added that members would continue to monitor proceedings at the court until a verdict, expected on April 24, 2026, is delivered.