A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted Saleh Mamman, Nigeria's former Minister of Power, on a 12-count charge bordering on fraud, money laundering, and criminal breach of trust. The conviction, delivered by Justice James Omotosho, involved the illegal diversion of approximately ₦33.8 billion public funds linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power projects. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) successfully proved its case against Mamman beyond reasonable doubt, presenting "overwhelming" evidence that included the testimony of 17 witnesses and 43 exhibits.

During his tenure as Minister of Power under former President Muhammadu Buhari from August 2019 to September 2021, Mamman was found to have personally benefited from the diverted funds. This included a substantial cash payment of $655,700, equivalent to about ₦200 million, for a landed property in Abuja, an amount that significantly exceeded legal cash transaction limits. The court also noted his acquisition of luxury assets both within and outside Nigeria, with part of the funds being channeled through Bureau de Change operators who converted the money into foreign currencies for the defendant. Justice Omotosho highlighted Mamman's failure to offer a credible defense, stating that he did not present any evidence to rebut the prosecution’s case.

Justice Omotosho further criticized the former minister's conduct while in office, remarking that "rather than creating a legacy to tackle the epileptic power supply in the country, the defendant was living large at the expense of ordinary citizens." This statement underscored the severity of the breach of public trust.

A significant turn of events occurred during the judgment delivery on Thursday, as Saleh Mamman was conspicuously absent from court. His lawyer, Mohammed Ahmed, informed the court that despite receiving notice of the judgment date, all attempts to reach Mamman had failed. Ahmed claimed that an associate had reported the former minister was "indisposed," but admitted to the court that no medical report was available to substantiate this claim. Counsel to the EFCC, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), who is also the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, urged the court to proceed with the judgment, emphasizing the lack of credible evidence for Mamman's absence and his status as a defendant on bail. Oyedepo also pointed out that Mamman had reportedly been involved in political activities, including purchasing an APC governorship nomination form in Taraba State, which contradicted claims of illness.

In response to Mamman's absence and the lack of explanation, Justice Omotosho rejected the application for a postponement. The judge criticized the defense for failing to provide proof of illness and warned against actions that could negatively portray the judiciary. To ensure his presence for sentencing and to prevent any attempt to flee the country, the court issued a bench warrant for Saleh Mamman's arrest. Sentencing has been deferred to May 13, 2026, marking the next critical step in the legal proceedings following his conviction.