Court Jails Ex-Power Minister

A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced former Power Minister, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years in prison over a ₦33.8 billion fraud case linked to major power projects. The ruling marked a significant development in Nigeria’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts involving former public officials.

Delivering judgment, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court found the former minister guilty and handed down separate prison terms on multiple counts. The court ordered that all sentences would run consecutively, bringing the total punishment to 75 years.

According to the ruling, the prison term will begin from the date Mamman is arrested. The judge also directed all security agencies, including Interpol, to arrest the former minister wherever he is located.

Justice Omotosho further ordered the forfeiture of all recovered funds and properties connected to the case to the Federal Government of Nigeria. The court also directed the convict to repay the outstanding balance linked to the ₦22 billion allocated for the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power project.

The case centred on allegations of financial misconduct involving funds meant for critical electricity infrastructure projects under the Ministry of Power. Authorities argued that the fraud affected major government plans aimed at improving electricity supply and energy development across Nigeria.

The conviction of Saleh Mamman adds to a growing list of high-profile corruption cases involving former public office holders in the country. Legal observers say the judgment could strengthen public attention on accountability and transparency in the management of public funds.

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