Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Thursday, May 7, 2026, convicted the former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, on a 12-count charge involving money laundering to the tune of ₦33.8 billion.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) prosecuted the former minister for the indirect conversion of ₦33,804,830,503.73. According to the charge sheet, Mamman conspired with ministry officials and private companies to divert funds originally released by the Federal Government for the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant projects. The court found that these actions constituted a criminal breach of trust and a violation of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act.
Further counts detailed illicit financial dealings, including a December 2019 conspiracy to make a cash payment of $665,700 to Mohiba Investment Ltd without passing through a formal financial institution. Such transactions are strictly prohibited under Nigerian law, which mandates that high-value payments be processed through recognized banking channels.
Despite the gravity of the proceedings, Mamman was notably absent from the courtroom. His defense counsel, Mohammed Ahmed, informed the court that the legal team had lost contact with the former minister after receiving the judgment notice earlier in the week. Ahmed claimed an associate had suggested Mamman was “indisposed,” but he could not provide specific details regarding his client’s location or health status.
EFCC lead counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, vehemently challenged the defense’s claims, noting the total lack of medical evidence to justify the absence. Oyedepo reminded the court that under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, the bench maintains the discretionary power to deliver judgment even in the absence of the defendant. Justice Omotosho agreed, expressing dissatisfaction with the defense’s vague explanations and emphasizing that legal practitioners must uphold their roles as ministers in the temple of justice.
Following the conviction on all 12 counts, Justice Omotosho deferred sentencing until May 13, 2026, citing the requirement for the defendant’s physical presence for the pronouncement of the penalty. To ensure the former minister does not flee the country before his sentencing, the court granted an application by the EFCC for a bench warrant, ordering the immediate arrest of Saleh Mamman.
