Ex-Minister Mamman Sentenced to 75 Years for N33.8B Fraud

A Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced Saleh Mamman, a former Minister of Power, to 75 years in prison on Wednesday after convicting him on 12 counts of money laundering and fraud involving N33.8 billion. Justice James Omotosho delivered the ruling, describing it as one of the most significant financial crime convictions against a former public official in recent years.

The court imposed seven-year terms on each of 10 counts, with three years on count four and two years on count five. The sentences will run consecutively, totaling 75 years, and begin upon Mamman's arrest. No fine option was allowed except for count four, which includes a N10 million alternative. Justice Omotosho ordered the forfeiture of foreign currencies recovered from Mamman and four high-value properties in Abuja, deeming them proceeds of unlawful activity. The judge also directed all security agencies to arrest Mamman, who has been absent from court proceedings.

Prosecutors from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission presented evidence of financial misconduct during Mamman's tenure, including irregular transactions linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects totaling around N22...