Ex-Minister Saleh Mamman Convicted for ₦33.8 Billion Fraud

Saleh Mamman, the former Minister of Power under President Muhammadu Buhari, was convicted by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday for fraud involving ₦33.8 billion. Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment, stating that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) successfully proved Mamman's culpability beyond a reasonable doubt on 12 counts of fraud and money laundering.

The court found that Mamman illegally diverted public funds and made a cash payment of ₦655,700, equivalent to ₦200 million for properties in Abuja without using financial institutions. Additionally, he was convicted for breach of trust related to funds meant for the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.

Mamman was absent during the judgment, and the court deferred sentencing while issuing a warrant for his arrest. His counsel informed the court that Mamman's whereabouts were unknown.

The EFCC presented 17 witnesses and 43 exhibits during the trial, which began after Mamman's removal from office in 2021.