A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, on multiple counts of money laundering in a case brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving N33 billion.
Justice James Omotosho found Mamman guilty on Thursday on counts one to four of a 12-count amended charge. Sentencing has been adjourned to a later date. The former minister was not present when the judgment was delivered.
Court Dismisses Fair Hearing Claims
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho rejected the defence’s argument that Mamman’s right to a fair hearing had been breached. The judge described as “a strange procedure” the defence’s attempt to recall a prosecution witness who had already been cross-examined.
The judge held that the prosecution was lawfully permitted to amend the charge before judgment and did not require the court’s leave to do so.
Prosecution’s Case Established
The court found that Mamman failed to call any witness in rebuttal of the EFCC’s case. Justice Omotosho stated that the evidence of prosecution witnesses was “quite believable” and that the ex-minister could not dispute allegations of criminal breach of trust and conspiracy.
The judge also noted that Mamman had admitted using illicit funds and had purchased a property in cash exceeding the legal limit. While the total charge involved N33 billion, the court established that at least N22 billion was diverted.
“It is a shameful thing for the ex-minister to divert money meant for addressing Nigeria’s power issue,” the judge said.
Background to the Case
Mamman served as Minister of Power from 2019 to 2021 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, who dismissed him from office. The EFCC arrested and detained him on May 10, 2021.
He was arraigned on July 11, 2024, accused of conspiring with ministry officials and private companies to divert and convert N33,804,830,503.73 through various firms. The funds had been released for the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant Projects.
The court had previously granted Mamman bail in the sum of N10 billion with two sureties in like amount. His counsel, Femi Ate (SAN), had filed a final address disputing the EFCC’s allegations, which the court ultimately rejected.
Earlier this year, the former minister had obtained nomination forms under the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest the governorship election in Taraba State.
