Federal High Court Convicts Former Minister
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court on Wednesday sentenced former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years in prison over corruption linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.
The court found Mamman guilty on a 12-count charge involving alleged diversion of public funds connected to the power projects.
Justice Omotosho ruled that the prison terms would run consecutively, bringing the total sentence to 75 years.
Court Orders Immediate Arrest
The judge also ordered security agencies to arrest Mamman wherever he is found.
In addition, the court directed that the prison sentence should begin from the date of his arrest.
The ruling followed months of legal proceedings surrounding the alleged mismanagement of funds tied to the multi-billion-naira power projects.
Government Recovers Properties, Funds
Justice Omotosho further ordered the forfeiture of all recovered funds and properties linked to the former minister.
The assets will now belong to the Federal Government.
The court also directed Mamman to refund the outstanding balance from the alleged N22 billion connected to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric projects.
Authorities accused the former minister of diverting public funds meant for critical electricity infrastructure during his time in office.
Case Linked to Major Hydroelectric Projects
The Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric projects rank among Nigeria’s largest power infrastructure projects. The Federal Government introduced the projects to improve electricity generation and strengthen the national grid.
However, investigators alleged that corruption and financial misconduct affected the execution of parts of the projects.
The judgment marks one of the biggest corruption convictions involving a former cabinet member in recent years.
