The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman in Kaduna State following his conviction over multi-billion naira fraud linked to major hydroelectric power projects.
According to reports made available to headlineswave.ng, Mamman was apprehended in the Rigasa area of Kaduna after weeks of surveillance and intelligence operations by EFCC operatives.
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede reportedly confirmed the arrest while addressing journalists, stating that the former minister went underground after being convicted by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Justice James Omotosho had earlier found Mamman guilty on 12 counts related to the diversion of funds allegedly meant for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric projects.
The court held that the EFCC successfully proved that not less than ₦22 billion earmarked for critical power infrastructure was diverted through proxy companies and associates.
Court Sentences Mamman to 75 Years
Following his failure to appear for sentencing, the court proceeded in absentia and handed the former minister multiple prison terms which cumulatively amount to 75 years.
The judgment included:
Seven years imprisonment on several counts without option of fine
Three years imprisonment on one count with a ₦10 million fine option
Additional prison terms on other counts
The sentences were ordered to run consecutively.
Mamman, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari between 2019 and 2021, is also reportedly facing another corruption trial involving an alleged ₦31 billion fraud before an FCT High Court.
Justice Maryanne Anenih had earlier issued a bench warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear in court for related proceedings.
The case has once again renewed debate about accountability, public sector corruption and the management of funds allocated to Nigeria’s power sector projects.
