A jury at London’s Southwark Crown Court has begun deliberating in the case of former Nigerian Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke, who is facing bribery charges linked to alleged corruption during her time in office.

Prosecutors say she received luxury benefits such as expensive properties, private flights, chauffeur-driven cars, and high-end shopping from oil executives who were allegedly trying to gain access and influence over Nigeria’s oil contracts. They described her as a key figure in a wider network built around the country’s petroleum industry.

She has denied all the allegations, telling the court she never asked for or accepted any bribes. Her lawyers argued that she only acted on official advice and had no control over the decisions being investigated.

During the trial, prosecutors challenged her account, presenting evidence and witness testimony suggesting she was aware of the benefits linked to her position. They also pointed to messages and records they say contradict her claims, while the defence insisted the evidence was being misinterpreted.

After months of hearings and cross-examination, the jury will now decide whether she and her co-defendants are guilty or not in one of the most closely watched corruption trials involving a former Nigerian official.