Former Nigerian oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke has pleaded not guilty to corruption charges at a court in London.

Ms Alison-Madueke, 65, appeared on Thursday at Southwark Crown Court, where she denied five counts of accepting bribes and one charge of conspiracy to commit bribery.

Prosecutors told the court that the former minister “enjoyed a life of luxury” while living in London, alleging that figures within the oil and gas industry provided her with access to high-end properties and expensive gifts. They argue these benefits were intended to influence the awarding of lucrative oil contracts.

However, her defence lawyer, Jonathan Laidlaw, rejected the prosecution’s claims, telling jurors that any purchases made on her behalf were due to restrictions placed on Nigerian ministers, who are prohibited from holding bank accounts outside the country.

Mr Laidlaw said Ms Alison-Madueke disputes the scale of the benefits alleged, including the use of properties and the value of goods she is said to have received. He told the court that all personal expenses incurred on her behalf were later reimbursed.

According to the defence, personal costs were repaid by Ms Alison-Madueke from Nigeria, while expenses linked to official duties were covered by government funds. Mr Laidlaw said this meant she gained no personal financial advantage.

The trial continues.