Former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, has been moved to the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja to begin serving a 75-year prison sentence after a Federal High Court ordered the commencement of his jail term over a money laundering conviction.
The transfer took place on Tuesday following proceedings before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission presented the former minister before the court.
The anti-graft agency also used the session to pursue another application seeking the forfeiture of five more properties said to be connected to Mamman.
The former minister had earlier been found guilty on all counts in an amended 16-count charge involving the laundering of more than ₦33.8 billion. The court later handed him a combined prison sentence of 75 years. The case centred on alleged diversion of funds and acquisition of expensive properties linked to major electricity projects, including the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric projects.
Before his arrest, Mamman reportedly left Abuja and travelled to Kaduna State, where EFCC operatives later arrested him in the Rigasa area alongside a family member on May 19.
During the court session, a relative identified as Shamsudeen Mohammed explained that Mamman travelled by taxi from Abuja to Kaduna and stayed in a rented apartment while receiving traditional treatment because of health concerns.
Justice Omotosho informed the former minister that his sentence had officially begun and explained that the court was only ensuring he understood the judgment and its effect.
Mamman told the court that his absence during earlier proceedings was connected to his health condition.
Meanwhile, the EFCC is asking the court to approve the forfeiture of five additional properties located in Abuja and Kaduna, which investigators believe are linked to the convict. The assets include residential and commercial properties in Wuse and Kaduna.
The court noted that Mamman’s lead counsel was absent despite being informed about the forfeiture application. Another lawyer said to be acting on his behalf reportedly declined to receive the court documents before leaving the courtroom.
When asked, Mamman said he had not spoken with his lawyer since his arrest.
Justice Omotosho later fixed June 8, 2026, for hearing on the forfeiture request to allow the former minister respond properly.
The court also directed that all relevant documents be served directly on him so he could arrange legal representation of his choice.