Nigeria: Ex-Power Minister Sentenced to 75 Years for N33.8bn Fraud

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A Nigerian Federal High Court has sentenced former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman to 75 years in prison over the laundering of 33.8 billion naira (approximately $24.6 million). The sentencing took place in Abuja on Wednesday, with the judge ordering that the sentence for each of the 12 counts of fraud and money laundering run consecutively—a rare show of toughness against a corrupt official.

Mr. Mamman, who served as energy minister between 2019 and 2021 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, was convicted in a judgment delivered on May 7. The case was brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Coverage Comparison

Reports from multiple outlets, including Africa News, AllAfrica, and the BBC, confirm that Mr. Mamman was found guilty of 12 counts of fraud and money laundering. The charges relate to the illegal diversion of funds intended for Nigeria's major hydropower projects, particularly the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plants.

According to a report from one outlet, the court ordered Mr. Mamman to repay 22 billion naira ($16 million; £12 million) as part of his sentence.

Key Claims

• 75-year sentence: The court ordered that the sentences for each count run consecutively, resulting in a total of 75 years. The judge, James Omotosho, noted that without the consecutive ruling, the sentence would have been only seven years.
• Basis of conviction: Mr. Mamman was found complicit in the diversion of public funds and using private firms to funnel money from government-funded power projects.
• Lifestyle and conduct: The court highlighted that Mr. Mamman made a cash payment of $655,700 for a landed property in Abuja, bypassing financial institutions. The judge criticized him for not focusing on leaving a lasting legacy in the power sector.
• Missing convict: Mr. Mamman was not present when the verdict was delivered, and an arrest warrant has been issued. The judge has ordered security agencies to arrest him wherever he is found.

Perspectives

The court's judgment delivered a strong rebuke of the defendant's conduct, with Justice Omotosho noting that Mr. Mamman's actions demonstrated a blatant disregard for the law. The conviction marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time a minister from former President Muhammadu Buhari's tenure has been jailed for graft.

Buhari's administration had pledged to tackle corruption, and this case is being seen as a test of that commitment. However, it is important to note that Mr. Mamman has not yet been reported as having commented publicly on his conviction. The BBC notes that just weeks before the sentencing, he announced plans to run for governor of Taraba State in the 2027 elections, weeks before the sentence was handed down.

While the trial has been ongoing, the Nigerian public has been left to grapple with persistent electricity shortages, and the wider implications of this case for accountability in public office remain to be seen.