A statement from former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan has been presented at the Southwark Crown Court as part of the ongoing trial involving Diezani Alison-Madueke
According to reports by BBC, the statement was read in court on Tuesday during proceedings.
In his remarks, Jonathan explained that it was not out of the ordinary for external parties to cover certain expenses for ministers while on official trips abroad.
Any properly incurred incidental or in-kind assistance from third parties would be recorded and reimbursed where applicable.
He further stated that he had authorised Alison-Madueke’s use of private jets for some international engagements.
Alison-Madueke, who headed the petroleum ministry between 2010 and 2015, is being tried alongside Olatimbo Ayinde and Doye Agama.
The trio are facing five counts related to alleged bribery, though they have all denied the charges.
Earlier arguments from prosecutors claimed the former minister received expensive gifts and access to luxury properties from individuals hoping to gain favourable decisions in oil deals, alleging the perks were tied to influence within the sector.
However, her lawyer, Jonathan Laidlaw, told the court that she did not wield meaningful control over how oil contracts were awarded during her tenure.
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