A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has convicted former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, in a money laundering case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The trial judge, James Omotosho, found the former minister guilty on all 12 counts filed by the anti-graft agency.
Delivering judgment on Thursday, the court held that the EFCC successfully proved its case against Mamman beyond reasonable doubt.
Justice Omotosho said the evidence presented before the court clearly established the former minister’s involvement in the laundering of public funds.
Mamman served as Minister of Power under former President Muhammadu Buhari between August 2019 and September 2021 before he was removed during a cabinet reshuffle.
The EFCC had accused the former minister of conspiring with officials and private companies to divert funds linked to power sector projects during his time in office. The commission alleged that large sums meant for government projects were moved through various bank accounts and associates.
During the trial, the prosecution presented documents, financial records and witnesses to support its claims that the funds were unlawfully handled and concealed through multiple transactions.
The court agreed with the anti-corruption agency that the transactions violated provisions of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act.
The conviction is seen as one of the major corruption judgments involving a former cabinet member from the Buhari administration. It also comes amid renewed anti-corruption efforts by the EFCC targeting former public office holders accused of financial crimes.
Details of sentencing and possible forfeiture orders are expected to follow after the conviction ruling.
