Court Sentences Ex-Power Minister Saleh Mamman to 75 Years Over N22bn Fraud

The Federal High Court has sentenced former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman to 75 years imprisonment over corruption linked to the controversial Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment on Wednesday after convicting Mamman on a 12-count charge bordering on corruption, diversion of public funds and unlawful enrichment.

The court ruled that the prison terms attached to the various counts would run consecutively, resulting in a total jail sentence of 75 years.

Justice Omotosho further ordered that the sentence would commence from the date the former minister is arrested and directed security agencies across the country to apprehend him wherever he is found.

In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered the forfeiture of all funds and properties already recovered from the former minister to the Federal Government.

The judge also directed Mamman to refund the outstanding balance from the alleged N22bn connected to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.

The case represents one of the most significant corruption convictions involving a former cabinet member under recent administrations and highlights ongoing anti-corruption efforts targeting public officials accused of financial misconduct.

Mamman served as Minister of Power under former President Muhammadu Buhari and oversaw parts of Nigeria’s electricity sector during a period marked by major power infrastructure initiatives and persistent national electricity challenges.

The Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project, located in Taraba State, has long been considered one of Nigeria’s most ambitious energy projects. Designed to significantly boost electricity generation capacity, the project has faced repeated delays, funding controversies and legal disputes over the years.

Similarly, the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Project in Niger State has been central to the Federal Government’s strategy to improve electricity supply and reduce dependence on gas-powered generation.

Both projects involve billions of naira in investments and international financing arrangements, making them critical to Nigeria’s long-term energy development plans.

Anti-corruption agencies had accused Mamman of unlawfully diverting and laundering funds tied to the projects while serving in office.

Although details of the specific transactions were not fully outlined during Wednesday’s ruling, the conviction followed lengthy investigations and court proceedings involving financial records, recovered assets and witness testimonies.

Legal analysts say the judgment underscores the judiciary’s increasing willingness to impose tougher penalties in high-profile corruption cases involving politically exposed persons.

The ruling also reinforces ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to recover public funds allegedly lost through corruption and mismanagement.

Observers note that corruption within the power sector has remained a major concern for years, with repeated allegations that mismanagement and diversion of funds have contributed to the country’s electricity crisis despite huge government spending.

The sentence is expected to generate fresh debate over accountability in public office and the need for stronger oversight mechanisms in major infrastructure projects.

As of Wednesday evening, there was no official reaction from Mamman or his legal representatives regarding the conviction and sentencing.