The Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, on 12 counts of fraud and money laundering involving about ₦33.8 billion.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment on Thursday, ruling that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Court finds overwhelming evidence

The court held that Mamman was guilty on all counts in the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/273/2024.

Justice Omotosho said the prosecution presented strong and credible evidence, while the defence failed to counter the allegations.

“The evidence of the prosecution is overwhelming as against the scanty and almost absent defence of the defendant,” the judge stated.

Funds diverted through BDCs

The court found that the former minister illegally diverted public funds meant for critical power projects.

According to the judgment, part of the funds was routed through Bureau de Change operators and converted into foreign currency.

Mamman was also found to have made a cash payment of $655,700, equivalent to about ₦200 million, for a property in Abuja without using a financial institution.

Projects affected by fraud

The diverted funds were linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant projects.

Justice Omotosho said the defendant breached public trust and failed to prioritise national development.

He noted that instead of leaving a legacy in the power sector, the former minister “was living large at the expense of ordinary citizens.”

Absence stalls sentencing

Mamman was not present in court when the judgment was delivered.

The court subsequently deferred sentencing and considered an application by the EFCC for a warrant of arrest.

His counsel told the court that the defendant’s whereabouts were unknown, claiming he was ill.

However, the judge referenced reports suggesting Mamman had recently been active in political activities.

EFCC details case

The anti-graft agency had presented 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits during the trial.

Mamman was arrested in 2021, months after leaving office under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The EFCC accused him of conspiring with ministry officials to divert funds earmarked for major hydroelectric power projects.