Former Power Minister Saleh Mamman Receives 75-Year Sentence in Nigerian Corruption Case
Saleh Mamman, who served as Nigeria's power minister from 2015 to 2021, has been handed a 75-year prison sentence for his involvement in laundering 33.8 billion naira (approximately $24.7 million or £18.5 million). This conviction, delivered last week, represents an uncommon legal victory against high-level corruption within the country's political establishment.
Mamman was found guilty on 12 counts, primarily for utilising private firms to divert government funds designated for power plant infrastructure. The 68-year-old was sentenced in absentia on Wednesday, with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stating that he has been "out of circulation" and "without trace" since his conviction. A high court in Abuja issued an arrest warrant for Mamman on Monday.
Despite his conviction, Mamman had announced plans to contest the 2027 gubernatorial elections for Taraba State under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) just weeks prior to his sentencing. The court has also ordered him to repay 22 billion naira (approximately $16 million or £12 million).
This case is part of a broader anti-corruption initiative targeting former government officials. Other prominent investigations by the EFCC include those involving former Justice Minister Abubakar Malami and former Humanitarian Affairs Minister Sadiya Umar Farouq, both of whom deny the allegations.
Mamman's conviction has intensified public discontent regarding Nigeria's persistent electricity crisis. Despite being a major energy producer, the nation endures chronic power shortages, with frequent blackouts severely impacting households and businesses. Millions rely on expensive, fuel-powered generators, exacerbating economic hardship amidst rising fuel costs.
