A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, on a 12-count charge of money laundering involving the alleged diversion of about ₦33.8 billion in public funds.
Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the judgment on Thursday, ruled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) successfully proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The judge criticised Mamman for living extravagantly while in office at the expense of Nigerians, noting that his actions contributed to the country’s persistent electricity supply challenges.
Former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman
However, sentencing was suspended until May 12 after the former minister failed to appear in court. His lawyer, Mohammed Ahmed, told the court he had not had access to Mamman since Tuesday and was informed by one of his associates that the ex-minister was ill.
EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), challenged the claim, arguing that the defence failed to provide medical proof to justify Mamman’s absence. He subsequently urged the court to issue a bench warrant for the convict’s arrest.
Justice Omotosho granted the request and ordered security agencies to locate and arrest Mamman, directing that he be produced in court on May 12 for sentencing.
Mamman was arrested in 2021, about four months after he was removed from office by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
During trial, the EFCC called 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits. The commission alleged that Mamman conspired with ministry officials to divert about ₦22 billion meant for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydroelectric Power projects, adding that the funds were used to acquire high-value assets within and outside Nigeria.
