- The Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted Saleh Mamman, Nigeria’s former Minister of Power, on a 12-count amended charge related to money laundering.
- Despite Mamman’s absence during the court session on Thursday, Justice James Omotosho ruled that the EFCC had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
- The charges stem from the alleged diversion and laundering of public funds intended for the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has delivered a landmark ruling, convicting former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, on 12 counts of money laundering.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, stated that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) provided sufficient and satisfying evidence to establish Mamman’s guilt.
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Even though the former minister was not present in the courtroom for the delivery of the judgment, the court proceeded with the conviction, maintaining that the prosecution had successfully met the legal burden of proof.
Saleh Mamman, who served as the head of the Ministry of Power under former President Muhammadu Buhari from August 2019 until his removal in September 2021, was at the center of a probe involving high-stakes energy infrastructure.
The anti-graft agency accused him of conspiring with various officials and private entities to siphon funds specifically allocated for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects, critical national assets intended to stabilize Nigeria’s power grid.
The conviction marks a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to hold high-ranking public officials accountable for the management of the nation’s utility sectors.
Justice Omotosho noted that the evidence of financial diversion was clear and indisputable.
While the conviction has been secured, the court is expected to provide further details regarding sentencing in the coming days.
