Court Sentences Ex-Nigerian Power Minister Mamman to 75 Years for N33.8bn Fraud

The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced former Nigerian Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years in prison for fraud and money laundering involving approximately ₦33.8 billion in public funds. Presiding Justice James Omotosho convicted Mamman on all 12 counts brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The sentence comprises consecutive terms, including seven years each for ten counts, with specific shorter terms for others. The court ordered the forfeiture of recovered foreign currencies and four properties in Abuja linked to the defendant. Mamman, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, was found guilty of siphoning funds intended for the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant projects through Bureau de Change operators. He was also penalized for making large cash payments for property without using financial institutions. The judge criticized Mamman for prioritizing personal wealth over resolving Nigeria's power crisis. As Mamman was absent during both conviction and sentencing, the court issued an arrest warrant and directed security agencies to collaborate with Interpol for his apprehension. His lawyer stated his whereabouts were unknown.