Former Power Minister Sentenced to 75 Years for Fraud
Alex Enuma in Abuja
Mamman Saleh, the former Minister of Power, received a 75-year prison sentence on Wednesday for his involvement in a massive money laundering and fraud scheme amounting to N33.8 billion. The ruling was delivered by Judge James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The court imposed consecutive sentences of seven years on each of ten counts, three years on four counts, and two years on five counts, without the option of a fine, except for one count which carries a NOK 10 million penalty. Judge Omotosho ordered that Saleh’s prison term would commence upon his arrest.
Immediate Arrest and Asset Forfeiture Directed
Judge Omotosho instructed all security agencies across Nigeria to apprehend Saleh wherever he might be located, emphasizing that the term of imprisonment will begin on the day of his arrest. Additionally, the judge ordered the forfeiture of foreign currency recovered from the former minister, as well as four real estate properties linked to him in Abuja.
The court mandated that Saleh repay N22 billion, alleged to be related to the controversial Mambilla and Zungeru hydropower projects. This development follows last week’s conviction of another former minister from the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on similar fraud charges linked to these projects.
Previous Arrest Warrant and Indictment
On May 7, an arrest warrant was also issued for Saleh, who had been indicted in July 2024 on multiple counts of money laundering. He was accused of colluding with ministry officials and private firms to siphon off a total of NOK 33.8 billion intended for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydropower initiatives. Despite these serious allegations, Saleh has consistently maintained his innocence.
Prosecution Evidence and Defense’s Lack of Response
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented a robust case against Saleh, including testimonies from 17 prosecution witnesses led by lawyer Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), the Federation’s Director of Public Prosecutions. The prosecution also submitted 43 pieces of evidence to support their claims. In contrast, Saleh’s defense, represented by lawyer Femi Ateh (SAN), did not call any witnesses.
Judge’s Remarks on Evidence Presented
In Judge Omotosho’s ruling, he noted that the EFCC met the burden of proving the twelve amended charges against Saleh beyond a reasonable doubt. He stated that at least N22 billion had been illicitly diverted by the defendant and his associates, which formed a solid basis for his conviction on the first count.
Condemnation of Corruption and Misuse of Public Funds
Judge Omotosho condemned Saleh’s actions, highlighting the egregious nature of his misconduct in misappropriating funds meant for critical infrastructure projects. He remarked on the shameful greed displayed by the defendant and his associates, who prioritized personal enrichment over the urgent need for improved power supply in Nigeria.
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
As Saleh was not present in court during the sentencing, prosecutor Rotimi Oyedepo requested that a warrant be issued for his arrest to ensure his appearance at the next scheduled court session. Saleh’s attorney, Mohamed Ahmed, sought an adjournment to allow his client to appear in court. The court granted the EFCC’s request for arrest, scheduling the next hearing for May 13, when the defendants are expected to be presented for sentencing.
