Court Jails Ex-Power Minister Saleh Mamman 75 Years for Fraud
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court don sentence former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years imprisonment over N33.8 billion fraud and money laundering case.
The judgment was delivered on Wednesday after the court found Mamman guilty on all 12 counts filed against him by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The court ruled say EFCC successfully proved the allegations beyond reasonable doubt.
Jail Terms Go Run Separately
Justice Omotosho ordered say the prison sentences go run consecutively and not concurrently, bringing the total jail term to 75 years.
The judge sentenced Mamman to:
- seven years imprisonment each on 10 counts without option of fine
- three years imprisonment on count four with N10 million fine option
- two years imprisonment on count five without option of fine
Court Orders Arrest of Mamman
The court also ruled say Mamman deliberately avoided court proceedings in attempt to frustrate justice.
Based on provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, the judge agreed with EFCC lawyer, Rotimi Oyedepo, that sentencing could continue despite the former minister absence.
Justice Omotosho subsequently ordered security agencies and Interpol to arrest Mamman anywhere he is found and hand him over to Nigerian Correctional Service.
According to the court, the prison sentence go begin from the date of his arrest.
Court Orders Asset Forfeiture
The judge further ordered final forfeiture of recovered funds, foreign currencies and properties linked to the former minister, including several assets traced to him for Abuja.
The court also directed Mamman to refund outstanding balance from the N22 billion reportedly diverted from funds meant for Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.
EFCC Filed Charges Since 2024
Mamman, wey served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, was first arraigned in July 2024 over allegations of conspiracy and money laundering.
The case was filed under suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/273/2024.
Justice Omotosho had earlier convicted the former minister in absentia on May 7 after ruling say evidence presented by EFCC clearly established his involvement in the fraud case.
