The Federal High Court in Abuja has handed down a heavy sentence to the former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, marking a major turning point in Nigeria’s fight against high-level corruption.
In a landmark ruling delivered on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, the court sentenced the former minister to a total of 75 years in prison.
This decision follows his conviction on several counts of money laundering and the diversion of public funds that were originally meant for critical national energy projects.
Justice James Omotosho, who presided over the case, delivered the verdict after finding Mamman guilty on all 12 counts brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The court held that the prosecution successfully proved its case beyond any reasonable doubt, demonstrating how the former minister participated in the “indirect conversion” of approximately N33.8 billion.
These funds were specifically earmarked for the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects, which are essential to stabilizing Nigeria’s power grid.
During the proceedings, the court highlighted the severity of the betrayal of public trust. Justice Omotosho noted that while the country continued to struggle with persistent blackouts and an “epileptic power supply,” the former minister was busy “living large at the expense of ordinary citizens.”
Evidence presented during the trial showed that Mamman had used Bureau De Change operators to siphon money and had even made a massive cash payment of $655,700 for a luxury property in Abuja, bypassing all financial institutions.
The sentencing today followed a dramatic turn of events last week when the former minister failed to appear for the initial judgment. His legal team had claimed he was too ill to attend, but the court dismissed these excuses as a delay tactic, especially after reports surfaced of his recent involvement in political activities in Taraba State. Consequently, Justice Omotosho issued a warrant for his arrest, leading to his appearance for the final sentencing today.
Saleh Mamman served as the Minister of Power under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2019 until he was relieved of his duties during a cabinet reshuffle in 2021.
His conviction and subsequent 75-year jail term—which the court clarified would run concurrently for the various counts—serves as one of the most significant judicial outcomes involving a former cabinet member in recent history.
