Former minister nabbed in Kano after weeks of manhunt
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, following his conviction and sentencing over a multi-billion naira money laundering case linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, confirmed that the former minister was arrested around 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday in Kano after weeks of intelligence tracking by operatives of the anti-graft agency.
Speaking during a press briefing, Olukoyede disclosed that the commission had filed charges against Mamman in January 2025 over allegations that he diverted more than ₦33 billion earmarked for critical power projects across the country.
According to him, the Federal High Court in Abuja convicted the former minister on all 12 counts brought against him by the EFCC earlier this month.
He explained that Mamman was initially absent during the trial proceedings, prompting the court to postpone sentencing before eventually handing down judgment in absentia on May 13.
The EFCC boss stated that the former minister was arrested alongside two other individuals suspected of shielding him from security agencies.
“We discovered that he had been protected all this while,” Olukoyede said, adding that the commission would also investigate the residence where the former minister was apprehended.
He described the arrest as a strong indication of the Federal Government’s determination to sustain the fight against corruption and ensure accountability in public service.
Olukoyede warned that individuals involved in the diversion of public funds would eventually face justice, regardless of where they attempt to hide.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, had sentenced Mamman to a total of 75 years imprisonment after finding him guilty on all 12 counts of money laundering involving ₦33.8 billion.
The judge ruled that the former minister deliberately stayed away from court proceedings in an attempt to frustrate the administration of justice.
Mamman received seven years imprisonment each on Counts 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 without the option of fine. He was also sentenced to three years imprisonment on Count 4 with an option of a ₦10 million fine, while Count 5 attracted a two-year jail term without an option of fine.
The court further directed security agencies to collaborate with Interpol to ensure his arrest and prosecution.
