The Federal High Court in Abuja has remanded former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, in prison custody over alleged N33 billion fraud.
Mamman, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, is facing multiple charges bordering on money laundering and conspiracy to divert public funds.
During the trial, a key video evidence presented by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was played in open court. The video was part of a trial-within-trial initiated to determine whether Mamman’s extra-judicial statement to the EFCC was made voluntarily. Mamman’s counsel, Femi Atteh, SAN, argued that his client’s statement was not made voluntarily, claiming he was not in the right state of health and was under duress.
The EFCC disagreed, maintaining that the statement was properly obtained in accordance with the law. EFCC lead counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, stated, “The defendant was never coerced, threatened, or induced in any form. We followed due process.”
Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case until May 2, 2025, for continuation of trial, stating that the court would continue to uphold principles of justice and fairness for both the prosecution and the defence. Mamman is alleged to have conspired with others to embezzle over N33 billion meant for power sector projects, including the Mambilla Hydropower Project and various electrification schemes.
The court heard that Mamman told investigators he couldn’t write his statement due to ill health, but EFCC investigator Abubakar Kwaido testified that Mamman was properly cautioned and understood his rights before questioning began. “Yes, I read the cautionary statement to him and ensured he comprehended before proceeding,” Kwaido said.
When asked if Mamman was threatened or intimidated, Kwaido responded, “No, my lord, there was no harassment or threat of detention.”
