The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, who was recently convicted by the Federal High Court in Abuja for financial misappropriation during his tenure in office.
Read more: EFCC Arrests Former Power Minister Saleh Mamman After ConvictionEFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede announced that Mamman was arrested at about 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday.
Recall that in January 2025, we filed charges against the former Minister of Power for allegedly diverting over ₦33 billion allocated for the Mambilla and Zungeru power projects, Olukoyede stated during a press briefing. After approximately 14 to 15 months, specifically on the 7th of this month, we secured convictions on all 12 counts. Since the defendant was absent, sentencing was deferred. On the 13th of this month, he was sentenced in absentia.”
Following the sentencing, the EFCC intensified its search for Mamman, launching a public intelligence appeal. I am pleased to inform Nigerians that, at about 3:30 a.m. this morning, we arrested Mr. Saleh Mamman in Kano, Olukoyede said.
Mamman’s arrest was carried out alongside two individuals accused of shielding the convicted ex-minister. We have established that he had been receiving protection, Olukoyede added.
The EFCC chairman further disclosed that the commission would investigate the premises where Mamman was found, emphasizing that this development underscores the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to fighting corruption in Nigeria.
This is to assure Nigerians that anyone who misappropriates public funds will not escape justice, and the eagle eye of the EFCC will find you wherever you hide, Olukoyede asserted.
75 Years’ Imprisonment
On May 13, the Federal High Court convicted Mamman on all 12 charges brought by the EFCC, sentencing him in absentia to a total of 75 years’ imprisonment for laundering ₦33.8 billion connected to the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects.
Justice James Omotosho, who presided over the case, ordered that the sentences be served consecutively, amounting to a total term of 75 years. The judge noted that Mamman’s absence during sentencing and at earlier hearings was a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice.
Mamman received seven years’ imprisonment each on Counts 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12, all without the option of a fine. He was also sentenced to three years on Count 4 with an option of a ₦10 million fine, and two years on Count 5 without the option of a fine.
Justice Omotosho directed all security agencies to collaborate with Interpol to secure Mamman’s arrest.
