A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years imprisonment for fraud and money laundering involving ₦33.8 billion in public funds.
Justice James Omotosho convicted Mamman on all 12 charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), relating to diverted funds meant for the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Projects.
The Judgment
The court imposed seven years each on 10 counts, three years on count four, and two years on count five, all to run consecutively without option of fine—except count four, which carries a ₦10 million fine. The judge also ordered forfeiture of foreign currencies and four Abuja properties linked to the convict.
Justice Omotosho described the EFCC’s evidence as “overwhelming,” citing 17 witnesses and 43 exhibits. Mamman, who served as Power Minister from 2019 to 2023, failed to offer a credible defence.Mamman was absent during both conviction (May 7) and sentencing. His lawyer told the court he had lost contact with his client. Justice Omotosho directed security agencies to collaborate with Interpol for his arrest, with the sentence effective from the date of apprehension.
EFCC Reaction
The EFCC welcomed the ruling, calling it a major victory against corruption in the power sector. “No individual, regardless of status, is above the law,” a spokesperson stated.Reactions have been mixed. Many Nigerians celebrated the conviction of a high-profile figure, while others questioned how such fraud occurred under multiple oversight bodies. Social media users expressed frustration that billions invested in power have not ended Nigeria’s electricity crisis.
Sector Implications
Analysts say the case underscores urgent needs for stronger governance, real-time fund monitoring, and consequences for abuse of public trust. The Mambilla and Zungeru projects remain critical to Nigeria’s energy future.
The Federal Ministry of Power has assured that both projects continue under enhanced transparency measures.Efforts are now focused on locating and extraditing Mamman. The EFCC and Nigeria’s diplomatic missions are expected to intensify coordination with international partners.
As Nigeria pursues anti-corruption reforms, stakeholders watch to see whether this landmark judgment will drive lasting change in public sector accountability.
