A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted a former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, on a 12-count charge of money laundering involving N33.8 billion, in a landmark ruling that underscores Nigeria’s ongoing anti-corruption drive in the power sector.
Trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, delivered the conviction but deferred sentencing to May 13, 2026, after the former minister failed to appear in court.
In a swift move to prevent possible flight, counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), applied for a bench warrant to compel Mamman’s arrest and ensure his presence at the sentencing hearing. The court granted the request, ordering that the former minister be produced on the adjourned date.
Mamman, who served as Minister of Power between 2019 and 2021, was prosecuted over allegations of laundering billions of naira during his tenure, a period marked by persistent power supply challenges and mounting public scrutiny over sector funding and performance.
Although details of the specific transactions were canvassed during trial, the charges broadly centred on the movement and concealment of public funds in violation of Nigeria’s anti-money laundering laws.
The conviction represents one of the most high-profile prosecutions linked to the power sector in recent years, a critical segment of the economy that has absorbed substantial public investment but continues to struggle with generation, transmission and distribution inefficiencies.
Legal observers say the court’s decision to issue a bench warrant signals a tougher judicial posture against high-profile defendants who fail to appear for proceedings, particularly in corruption-related cases.
The EFCC has, in recent years, intensified efforts to prosecute politically exposed persons accused of financial crimes, amid growing public demand for accountability and transparency in government.
Mamman’s sentencing, now scheduled for May 13, is expected to determine the extent of penalties, which could include a custodial term, fines, or both, under Nigeria’s money laundering statutes.
The case adds to the list of corruption prosecutions involving former public officials, as authorities seek to reinforce deterrence and restore confidence in governance and public financial management.
