A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, in a 12-count amended money laundering case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), involving alleged diversion of about N33 billion.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment on Thursday and subsequently adjourned sentencing to a later date. Mamman, who was not present in court at the time of the ruling, had earlier pleaded not guilty, leading to a full trial.
Delivering judgment, Justice Omotosho said the court considered two key issues: whether the defendant’s right to fair hearing was breached and whether the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The judge held that Mamman was entitled to adequate facilities and sufficient time during his trial but ruled that the defence’s attempt to recall a prosecution witness after cross-examination was “a strange procedure” aimed at discrediting the prosecution’s evidence.
On the amended charge, the court ruled that the prosecution was legally entitled to amend its charges before judgment without seeking the court’s leave.
Justice Omotosho noted that Mamman failed to call any witness in his defence and held that the prosecution successfully proved counts 1 to 4 of the charge.
The court further found that the ex-minister purchased property in cash beyond legally permitted limits and described the prosecution’s evidence as “believable and credible.”
He also held that Mamman could not successfully challenge allegations of conspiracy and criminal breach of trust, adding that the defendant had admitted to handling illicit funds.
The court concluded that the EFCC proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, stating that at least N22 billion was diverted under Mamman’s watch. The judge described the diversion of funds meant for Nigeria’s power sector as “a shameful act.”
Recall that Mamman served as Minister of Power between 2019 and 2021 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, until he was dismissed following allegations of financial misconduct.
He was arrested by the EFCC on May 10, 2021, and later arraigned on July 11, 2024, on charges of conspiracy, abuse of office, and alleged diversion of N33.8 billion linked to power projects including the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric schemes.
The anti-graft agency alleged that the funds were routed through multiple private companies in breach of financial regulations.
He was granted bail in the sum of N10 billion with two sureties.
Mamman’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Ate, had earlier filed final written arguments challenging the EFCC’s case.
Mamman’s political career took a downturn following his removal from office in 2021. Since then, he has faced ongoing prosecution over alleged financial irregularities during his tenure.
Despite the legal proceedings, he recently obtained nomination forms under the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest the upcoming Taraba State governorship election.
