Ex-power minister Mamman faces sentencing after N33.8bn laundering conviction

In a landmark judgment, former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, has been convicted on all 12 counts of money laundering by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The conviction, stemming from charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), relates to the alleged diversion and laundering of N33.8 billion intended for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects during his tenure under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Justice James Omotosho's ruling highlighted the overwhelming evidence presented by the prosecution, which included 17 witnesses and 43 exhibits. The court found Mamman culpable in the diversion of public funds, noting specific instances of cash payments for property without recourse to financial institutions and the alleged movement of funds through Bureau de Change operators. The judge's remarks were particularly scathing, observing that "Rather than creating a legacy to tackle the epileptic power supply in the country, the defendant was living large at the expense of ordinary citizens. Little wonder that Nigerians have remained in darkness till today."

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The evidence of the prosecution is overwhelming against the scanty and almost absent defence of the defendant.

From our perspective at The Punch, this conviction is a significant victory in the fight against corruption, particularly in a sector as critical as power. The judgment serves as a stark reminder that public office comes with immense responsibility, and accountability for the mismanagement of funds meant to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians will not be overlooked. The fact that Mamman was absent from court when the judgment was delivered, with his counsel citing illness, only adds a layer of controversy to an already high-profile case. The court's decision to proceed with the judgment, referencing media reports of Mamman's recent political activities, underscores the judiciary's commitment to dispensing justice regardless of the defendant's status.

This case underscores a persistent issue in Nigeria: the alleged siphoning of funds meant for essential infrastructure projects, which directly impacts the daily lives of citizens. The conviction of a former minister in such a case sends a powerful message, but the true measure of justice will be in the recovery of the laundered funds and ensuring that such egregious acts do not recur. The ongoing struggle for stable electricity in Nigeria makes this conviction all the more poignant, highlighting the profound impact of corruption on national development.

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Rather than creating a legacy to tackle the epileptic power supply in the country, the defendant was living large at the expense of ordinary citizens. Little wonder that Nigerians have remained in darkness till today.