A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, over a N33.8 billion fraud linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects, reigniting public attention on one of Nigeria’s most controversial power sector scandals.
Justice James Omotosho found the former minister guilty on 12 counts bordering on money laundering and criminal breach of trust after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accused him of diverting funds meant for critical electricity projects.
According to the court, large sums allocated for the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project and the Zungeru power project were allegedly routed through bureau de change operators and private companies before being converted into foreign currencies.
The judgment has renewed scrutiny of the long-delayed Mambilla Power Project, a multi-billion dollar initiative designed to boost Nigeria’s electricity generation capacity. The project has faced years of legal disputes, funding controversies, contractual disagreements, and allegations of corruption despite repeated promises by successive administrations.
During the trial, several witnesses testified on suspicious financial transactions linked to project funds. One witness told the court that over a billion naira was converted into foreign currency on instructions allegedly tied to officials handling the Mambilla project accounts.
Another witness also informed the court that multiple payments entered various private accounts, though he claimed transaction narrations did not directly state they originated from the Ministry of Power.
The court held that the prosecution provided overwhelming evidence against the former minister and criticised the diversion of funds intended to improve electricity supply across the country.
The case has further intensified concerns over transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s power sector, especially as millions of Nigerians continue to face unstable electricity supply years after the launch of the Mambilla project.
