Ex‑Minister Jailed Over Multi‑Billion Power Project Fraud

By Abigail Iyade

  


The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, following his conviction on multiple counts of fraud and money laundering. 


Mamman was apprehended in Kaduna around 3:30 a.m. on May 19, 2026, after being sentenced in absentia to 70–75 years imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Abuja.  


Justice James Omotosho ruled that Mamman diverted between ₦22 billion and ₦33.8 billion earmarked for the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects, two of Nigeria’s most critical electricity expansion initiatives. 


The court found the EFCC’s case proven beyond reasonable doubt, convicting Mamman on 12 counts of money laundering and diversion of public funds.  


The judgment ordered the forfeiture of all recovered assets and funds to the Federal Government, alongside repayment of outstanding balances linked to the projects. 


EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede described the arrest as proof that “the eagle eye of the Commission will always catch up with you wherever you are hiding.”  


Mamman’s case began in January 2025 when the EFCC filed charges against him. After months of proceedings, he was convicted earlier this month but failed to appear for sentencing. His arrest now ensures the sentence will take effect immediately.  


The scandal has raised serious concerns about Nigeria’s power sector, as both the Mambilla and Zungeru projects were designed to boost national electricity generation and reduce chronic supply shortages. 


Analysts warn that the diversion of funds has delayed progress on these projects, undermining Nigeria’s energy security and economic growth.  




The Key Takeaways are:

- Saleh Mamman sentenced to 70–75 years for fraud.  

- Funds diverted from Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric projects.  

- EFCC ordered forfeiture of assets and repayment of stolen funds.  

- Arrest highlights Nigeria’s intensified anti‑corruption drive.  

- Energy sector impact: delays in critical power infrastructure.  


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Sources

- The Guardian Nigeria  

- Nairametrics  

- Vanguard News  


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