Court Convicts Ex-Minister Saleh Mamman for N33 Billion Fraud

Saleh Mamman, the former Minister of Power, was convicted by the Federal High Court in Abuja on 12 counts of fraud and money laundering, involving the theft of over N33 billion. Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment on Thursday, stating that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

The court found that Mamman illegally diverted public funds amounting to N33.8 billion during his tenure under former President Muhammadu Buhari. The judgment revealed that Mamman made cash payments totaling N655 million and acquired properties in Abuja without passing through financial institutions.

The court noted that large sums were laundered through bureau de change operations to convert funds into foreign currency. Justice Omotosho described the prosecution's evidence as overwhelming, while Mamman's defense failed to present credible arguments against the allegations.

Mamman was absent during the judgment, and his lawyer informed the court that his whereabouts were unknown, although he was reportedly ill. The court declined to delay the ruling and deferred sentencing, granting the EFCC's request to issue a warrant for Mamman's arrest.