Full Breakdown
Former Nigerian Power Minister Saleh Mamman Sentenced to 75 Years for $24.7 Million Fraud
5/14/2026, 2:10:10 AM
Conviction and Sentences
On 13 May 2026 the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman to 75 years in prison after finding him guilty on all twelve fraud and money-laundering counts. Justice James Omotosho ordered the terms to run consecutively and directed security agencies to arrest the convict and seize his assets.
Background of the Case
The case centers on the alleged diversion of ?33.8 billion (? $24.7 million) earmarked for the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric projects. The EFCC said the money was laundered through private firms and Bureau de Change operators, breaching the Money-Laundering Act. Mamman served as minister from 2019 to 2021 under President Muhammadu Buhari.
Key Figures
Saleh Mamman – former minister; Justice James Omotosho – presiding judge; Economic and Financial Crimes Commission – anti-graft agency that brought the case; Interpol and Nigerian security services – tasked with locating the fugitive.
Timeline
Aug 2019 – Mamman sworn in; May 2021 – EFCC arrests him; Jul 2024 – arraigned on twelve counts; 7 May 2026 – convicted in absentia; 13 May 2026 – sentenced and warrant issued.
Data and Sentencing Details
The court found ?33.8 billion laundered. Sentences: seven years on ten counts, three years on one count (with a N10 million fine option), two years on another – total 75 years. It ordered repayment of ?22 billion and forfeiture of four Abuja properties and foreign currency.
Impact and Significance
The judgment is among the harshest imposed on a former federal minister, signalling a tougher EFCC stance. Analysts warn that corruption in flagship power projects undermines investor confidence, delays grid upgrades and adds fiscal pressure to Nigeria’s already strained budget.
Official Statements & Criticism
The EFCC said its evidence proved beyond reasonable doubt that Mamman “laundered 33.8 billion naira through private companies.” Legal scholars caution that lasting credibility of anti-corruption drives requires consistent enforcement across all political levels and note procedural delays in high-profile cases.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources list the misappropriated sum as ?33.8 billion or ?33,804,830,503.73 naira; restitution is described as “about ?22 billion.” Mamman’s whereabouts remain unknown, and no medical proof has been offered for his claimed illness.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Rather than creating a legacy to tackle the epileptic power supply in the country, the defendant was living large at the expense of ordinary citizens,” — Justice James Omotosho
- “Justice Omotosho said that the absence of the ex-minister in court today (Thursday) and on the last adjourned date was a deliberate attempt to stop the wheel of justice.” — Justice James Omotosho
- “The judge, who ordered that the sentence shall run consecutively, said this shall commenced from the date of his arrest.” — Justice James Omotosho
What’s Next
Interpol and Nigerian security agencies have been ordered to locate Mamman worldwide. The 75-year term will begin once he is taken into custody, and forfeited assets will be transferred to the federal government. The EFCC says further high-profile corruption prosecutions are underway.
