Thursday May 7, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng

The Federal High Court in Abuja has found former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, guilty on 12 counts of fraud and money laundering involving about N33.8 billion.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment on Thursday, May 7, 2026, stating that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) proved the former minister’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Mamman, who was Minister of Power under President Muhammadu Buhari from 2019 to 2021, was accused of working with ministry officials and others to divert funds intended for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydroelectric Power projects.

The court found that he made cash payments totalling $655,700 (about N200 million) to buy land in Abuja. This violated money laundering laws, and the funds were allegedly sent through Bureau de Change operators.

Justice Omotosho criticised the former minister, saying that instead of working to improve Nigeria’s power supply, Mamman allegedly used his position to benefit himself while citizens suffered.

“Little wonder that’s a Nigerians have remained in darkness till today,” the judge said.

The defendant was not in court when the judgment was delivered. His lawyer said Mamman’s whereabouts were unknown and claimed he was ill. The judge postponed sentencing, and the EFCC requested an arrest warrant.

Mamman was arrested in 2021 and officially charged in July 2024. During the trial, the EFCC called 17 witnesses and submitted 43 exhibits to support its case.

Earlier, he bought nomination forms to run for the 2027 governorship election in Taraba State under the All Progressives Congress.

This conviction is part of ongoing anti-corruption efforts targeting former public officials accused of diverting funds intended for important infrastructure projects.

More updates on sentencing and possible appeals will be available once the defendant returns to court.