By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, in Kaduna State after a Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced him to 75 years in prison for fraud and money laundering. EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, confirmed the arrest on Tuesday during a press briefing in Abuja. Authorities arrested Mamman around 3:30 a.m. alongside two suspects accused of protecting him. The conviction relates to the alleged diversion of N33.8 billion meant for the Mambilla and Zungeru hydropower projects.
EFCC Details Charges Against Mamman
Olukoyede revealed that the EFCC filed charges against the former minister in January 2025. The agency accused him of converting public funds allocated to critical power projects.
According to the EFCC chairman, prosecutors secured convictions on all 12 counts after nearly 15 months of trial.
He explained that the court delayed sentencing because Mamman failed to appear in court initially. However, the court later delivered judgment in absentia on May 13.
Olukoyede stressed that the EFCC immediately launched intelligence and surveillance operations after the conviction.
“The eagle eye of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission will always catch up with you wherever you are hiding,” he said.
EFCC Investigates Additional Properties
The EFCC chairman disclosed that investigators are examining the house where Mamman was arrested. Furthermore, the commission has identified additional assets allegedly linked to the former minister.
Olukoyede said the anti-graft agency would widen its investigations to uncover more properties and financial transactions connected to the case.
He also warned that anyone shielding convicted persons would face prosecution once investigations conclude.
DPP Explains Transfer to Correctional Centre
Director of Public Prosecution, Rotimi Oyedepo, stated that authorities are processing Mamman’s transfer to a correctional facility.
Oyedepo noted that the court directed all security agencies to ensure the convict had no hiding place.
He added that the arrest demonstrates stronger collaboration among law enforcement agencies in executing court judgments.
EFCC Plans Tighter Surveillance on High-Profile Suspects
Olukoyede announced that the commission would strengthen monitoring measures for individuals facing corruption trials.
According to him, future high-profile defendants may remain under closer surveillance to prevent escape from Nigeria’s jurisdiction.
He emphasized that corruption investigations would cover both public and private individuals.
“We will uphold our mandate and ensure that everyone, whether private or public, will be investigated and brought to court,” Olukoyede stated.
The EFCC chairman maintained that the Federal Government remains committed to fighting corruption and recovering stolen public funds.
