APC Gubernatorial Aspirant Convicted for ₦33.8bn Fraud

Saleh Mamman, a gubernatorial aspirant for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, was convicted by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday for fraud amounting to ₦33.8 billion. Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment, stating that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) successfully proved its case against Mamman beyond a reasonable doubt.

He was found guilty on 12 counts of financial misconduct, including the illegal diversion of public funds. The court specifically noted that Mamman made a cash payment of ₦655.7 million, equivalent to $200 million, for land property in Abuja without the involvement of a financial institution, which was contrary to the law.

The judgment criticized Mamman for failing to leave a meaningful legacy in the power sector and for living extravagantly at the expense of ordinary citizens. Mamman was absent during the judgment, and the court deferred sentencing while the EFCC applied for a warrant for his arrest.