A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, on a 12-count charge bordering on fraud and money laundering involving about ₦33.8 billion.

Delivering judgment, Justice James Omotosho held that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, finding the former minister guilty of illegally diverting public funds linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power projects.

The court further held that Mamman personally benefited from the diverted funds, including the payment of $655,700 (about ₦200 million) in cash for landed property in Abuja—an amount said to exceed legal cash transaction limits—as well as the acquisition of luxury assets within and outside Nigeria.

Justice Omotosho described the prosecution’s evidence as “overwhelming,” noting that Mamman failed to present a credible defence. The EFCC, he added, called 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits in support of its case.

With the conviction secured, the court has adjourned proceedings to a later date for sentencing.

Boluwatife Enome