In a major victory for the country's anti-corruption crusade, the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced the former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to a total of 75 years in prison. The landmark judgment was delivered on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, following a rigorous trial concerning the diversion of ₦33.8 billion. These funds were originally intended for critical infrastructure, specifically the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects.
Justice James Omotosho convicted Mamman on all 12 counts of conspiracy and money laundering brought forward by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The court handed down seven-year terms for ten counts, three years for count four, and two years for count five. Notably, the judge ordered these sentences to run consecutively, culminating in the 75-year term.
The sentencing occurred in absentia, as Mamman has been missing since his initial conviction on May 7. A bench warrant has been issued, with Justice Omotosho directing all security agencies—including Interpol—to apprehend the former minister. In addition to the jail time, the court ordered the final forfeiture of several high-value properties in Abuja and various recovered foreign currencies.
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