Ex-Minister Saleh Mamman Guilty of N33.8bn Fraud

On Thursday, the Federal High Court in Abuja found Saleh Mamman, the former Minister of Power, guilty of money laundering related to N33.8 billion earmarked for the Zungeru Mambilla hydroelectric power project. Justice James Omotosho presided over the trial, during which the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented 43 exhibits and called 17 witnesses.

Mamman pleaded not guilty to the charges, but the court ruled that the prosecution established 12 counts of amended charges against him beyond a reasonable doubt. The court found that Mamman diverted funds meant for the power project for personal gain, leading to a conviction on count 1 of the charges.

Following the verdict, the court issued a warrant for Mamman's arrest, and sentencing is set for May 13, 2024. Mamman's lawyer, Moham Ahm, requested an adjournment to allow his client to appear in court.