Court Convicts Ex-Minister Mamman in ₦22bn money laundering Case

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday convicted former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, over a money laundering case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. Justice James Omotosho found him guilty on 12 amended charges after ruling that the prosecution successfully proved its case against the former minister.

Mamman, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari from August 2019 to September 2021, was prosecuted over the alleged diversion of funds linked to the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects. The EFCC accused him of working with ministry officials and private companies to divert public funds meant for power projects across the country.

The court ruled that the evidence presented by the anti-graft agency clearly connected the former minister to the offences. Justice Omotosho held that the defence failed to provide enough material to challenge the case brought before the court.

During the trial, the EFCC told the court that large amounts of money were moved through Bureau de Change operators who converted the funds into foreign currencies before handing them over to Mamman. Investigators also alleged that the diverted funds were used to buy properties and other assets within and outside Nigeria.

The former minister was absent when the judgment was delivered. His lawyer, Mohammed Ahmed, informed the court that Mamman’s whereabouts had been unknown since last Tuesday when notice of the judgment date was issued. He added that the former minister’s personal assistant later informed him that Mamman was ill.

The court, however, refused to delay the judgment. Justice Omotosho noted that reports recently linked Mamman to political activities in Taraba State, including moves connected to a governorship ambition.

Following the conviction, the EFCC requested a warrant for his arrest. The sentencing was postponed because the defendant was not present in court.

Mamman was first arrested in 2021, months after he was removed from office by former President Buhari. During the trial, the EFCC presented 17 witnesses and submitted 43 exhibits while prosecuting the case.

According to the anti-graft agency, about ₦22 billion meant for major power projects was diverted during Mamman’s time as minister. The projects involved in the case include the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric projects, which were designed to improve electricity supply in the country.

The court is expected to fix a new date for sentencing after further proceedings in the matter.