BREAKING: Court sentences ex-power minister Mamman to 75 years

On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, a Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced the former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years in prison for his involvement in a ₦33.8 billion fraud and money laundering scheme.

The presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, found Mamman guilty on all 12 counts brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Key Details of the Judgment:
The Sentence: The 75-year total comes from 12 counts where the terms are ordered to run consecutively. He received seven years each for 10 counts, with the remaining counts making up the total.

Sentenced in Absentia: Mamman was not present in court for the judgment. Consequently, Justice Omotosho ordered all security agencies to arrest him wherever he is found. His prison term will officially begin from the day he is taken into custody.

The Charges: The fraud was linked to funds earmarked for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects. The EFCC proved that Mamman conspired with ministry officials and private companies to divert public funds.

Financial Penalties & Forfeiture:

The court ordered the forfeiture of four choice properties in Abuja and various foreign currencies recovered from him.

He is required to refund the outstanding balance of the ₦22 billion traced specifically to the hydroelectric projects.

No option of a fine was given for the primary counts, though a ₦10 million fine was allowed for one specific count (count four).

Saleh Mamman served as the Minister of Power under former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2019 until he was relieved of his duties in September 2021. He was first arrested by the EFCC in May 2021 and was arraigned in July 2024. The trial involved 17 witnesses and 43 exhibits presented by the prosecution.