The ongoing corruption trial of former Nigerian oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke at Southwark Crown Court has revealed audio recordings that prosecutors say shed light on her relationship with billionaire businessman Kola Aluko.
Alison-Madueke, who also served as former president of Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), is facing five counts of accepting bribes and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery. She has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
In recordings presented in court, Aluko is allegedly heard reassuring Alison-Madueke of his commitment, describing himself as “loyal like a dog.” The remark was reportedly made amid concerns about leaks from their inner circle.
Prosecutors argue that the exchanges demonstrate a close personal bond intertwined with business dealings at the center of the alleged corruption scheme.
A May 2014 audio clip, referred to in court as the “Playboy Lecture,” reportedly captured Alison-Madueke criticising Aluko’s high-profile lifestyle. She allegedly warned him that public appearances with celebrities such as Naomi Campbell could attract unwanted attention from intelligence agencies.
According to court testimony, she cautioned that his extravagant image could jeopardize their shared interests.
The trial also referenced the luxury yacht Galactica Star, valued at approximately $80 million. Alison-Madueke allegedly questioned Aluko’s decision to purchase the yacht outright, suggesting leasing it instead to maintain greater discretion.
U.S. authorities previously sought forfeiture of the vessel as part of civil proceedings. In 2023, the United States Department of Justice announced the resolution of related civil forfeiture cases, recovering over $53 million in cash and securing additional financial instruments tied to the matter.
Prosecutors contend that from 2011 to 2015, Aluko and other associates conspired to pay bribes to Alison-Madueke in exchange for lucrative oil contracts. The proceeds, allegedly exceeding $100 million, were said to have been laundered through the United States and used to purchase luxury properties and assets.
Aluko has faced investigations in multiple jurisdictions but has not been criminally convicted. His name continues to surface in connection with international corruption probes linked to Nigeria’s oil sector.
As proceedings continue in London, the court is examining whether the audio recordings reflect merely a personal relationship or form part of a broader conspiracy involving bribery and illicit financial flows.