FORMER POWER MINISTER SALEH MAMMAN BEGINS 75-YEAR PRISON SENTENCE OVER N33.8BN MONEY LAUNDERING
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has transferred former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja after a Federal High Court ordered him to commence serving a 75-year prison sentence for money laundering.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Maitama, gave the directive on Tuesday following Mamman’s appearance in court, where he was formally taken into custody to begin serving his term.
The EFCC confirmed the development in a statement posted on its official X handle, noting that the court also considered an additional forfeiture application involving five properties allegedly linked to the former minister.
Mamman was convicted on May 7 on all counts in an amended 16-count charge bordering on money laundering involving over ₦33.8 billion. He was later sentenced in absentia on May 13 to a cumulative 75 years imprisonment.
The case involved allegations of diversion of funds linked to major power projects, including the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric schemes, as well as unlawful acquisition of multi-million-naira assets.
He was reportedly arrested on May 19 in Kaduna State after fleeing Abuja following his conviction.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, the court also heard testimony relating to his movement after sentencing, with a relative stating he travelled by taxi from Abuja to Kaduna while ill.
Justice Omotosho ruled that Mamman’s sentence takes effect immediately, stressing that the defendant’s absence from earlier proceedings did not invalidate the judgment.
“The sentence starts to run from today,” the judge said, adding that he would provide further explanation of the judgment to the convict.
The court adjourned the forfeiture hearing to June 8, 2026, to allow Mamman respond to the application and ensure he is properly served for legal representation.
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