Nigerian Ex-Power Minister Sale Mamman Convicted of Massive Fraud Days After Filing for Governor

Justice James Omotosho of Nigeria's Federal High Court in Abuja delivered a stinging verdict on May 7, convicting former Minister of Power Sale Mamman on 12 counts of fraud and money laundering. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented overwhelming evidence proving beyond reasonable doubt that Mamman illegally diverted about ₦33.8 billion of public funds.

The court's findings detailed how Mamman, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, breached trust by misappropriating funds allocated for the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power projects. Among the charges, Mamman was found guilty of making a suspicious cash payment of $655,700 (₦200 million) for a property in Abuja without any bank financing.

Justice Omotosho noted that Mamman funneled much of the stolen money through Bureau de Change operators to convert it into foreign currencies, facilitating his illicit financial maneuvers. The judge condemned Mamman’s actions, highlighting the contrast between his extravagant lifestyle and the ongoing power shortages plaguing ordinary Nigerians.

"Instead of creating a legacy to address the country's epileptic power supply, the defendant lived large at the expense of ordinary citizens," Justice Omotosho stated. "Little wonder Nigerians remain in darkness till today."

The judgment came just days after Mamman submitted his candidacy to contest the 2027 governorship election in Taraba State under the All Progressives Congress party. His absence from court led to the issuance of an EFCC arrest warrant. His defense lawyer claimed Mamman was unwell and has been unreachable since the judgment date was announced.

Mamman was arrested in 2021, roughly four months after Buhari removed him from office during a cabinet reshuffle. The EFCC called 17 witnesses and submitted 43 exhibits during the trial, alleging Mamman conspired with ministry officials to divert funds and acquire high-value assets both within and outside Nigeria.

Born January 2, 1958, in Taraba State, Mamman holds a Higher National Diploma in Electrical Electronics and an MBA in Business Administration. He served as Minister of Power from August 2019 until his removal in September 2021.

The court scheduled Mamman’s sentencing for May 13, 2026, pending his arrest and presence in court. This case underscores the persistent corruption undermining Nigeria’s public infrastructure and governance, with powerful figures exploiting their positions while citizens suffer.