Diezani Alison-Madueke, a former president of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) appeared at the High Court in London today to face charges linked to an alleged international bribery scheme involving energy contracts and offshore payments.

Prosecutors allege that the former official, who once held one of the most influential positions in global oil markets, accepted millions of dollars in illicit payments from intermediaries seeking preferential access to oil supply agreements and exploration licenses. The investigation, led by the UK’s Serious Fraud Office, spans multiple jurisdictions and includes financial transactions routed through shell companies and overseas bank accounts.

In court, the prosecution outlined claims that the accused used her position to influence commercial decisions while secretly benefiting from undisclosed arrangements with private firms. 

The trial is expected to run for several weeks, with testimony anticipated from financial experts, former industry executives, and international investigators. If convicted, the former OPEC president could face significant prison time and substantial financial penalties under UK anti-corruption laws.

The case marks one of the most high-profile prosecutions in London involving alleged corruption at the highest levels of the global energy sector and is being closely watched by regulators and industry observers worldwide.