A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Thursday, May 7, 2027, convicted a former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman over fraud and money laundering charges linked to billions of naira meant for major electricity projects in Nigeria.
Delivering judgment, the court presided over by Justice James Omotosho held that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) proved its case against the former minister beyond reasonable doubt.
Mamman, who served in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, was found guilty on multiple counts involving the unlawful diversion of public funds connected to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.
Justice Omotosho further held that Mamman illegally diverted approximately ₦33.8 billion and also made a cash payment of $655,700 for a property in Abuja without going through any financial institution, contrary to financial regulations.
The court said that large portions of the funds were allegedly moved through Bureau de Change operators before being converted into foreign currencies and handed over to the defendant.
The trial judge noted that the prosecution presented strong and convincing evidence throughout the trial, while the defence failed to effectively challenge the allegations.
Justice Omotosho said; “The evidence of the prosecution is overwhelming as against the scanty and almost absent defence of the defendant”.
The judge also criticised Mamman’s stewardship of the power sector, lamenting the country’s continued electricity challenges despite the huge sums allocated to the projects.
“Rather than creating a legacy to tackle the epileptic power supply in the country, the defendant was living large at the expense of ordinary citizens.
“Little wonder that Nigerians have remained in darkness till today,” Justice Omotosho stated.
However, the defendant – Mamman was absent in court when the verdict was delivered as his defence counsel, Mohammed Ahmed told the court that the former minister’s aide said that he was ill.
Attempt by the defence team to delay the judgment was however, rejected by the court which made reference to reports that Mamman participated in recent political activities in Taraba State.
During the proceedings, EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN urged the court to continue with the judgment despite the defendant’s absence.
Oyedepo said; “My Lord should go ahead. If the judgment is in his favour, we know what to do. If it is against him, we also know what to do”.
However, the court fixed May 12, 2026, for sentencing.
The EFCC effect the arrest of Mamman in 2021 and later presented 17 witnesses alongside dozens of exhibits during the trial.
Investigators alleged that part of the diverted funds was used to acquire properties both within and outside Nigeria.
