Saleh Mamman, Nigeria’s former Minister of Power, has been ordered into custody at Kuje prison by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
This follows his arraignment on a 12-count money laundering charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges allege Mamman’s involvement in fraudulent activities amounting to N33 billion.
Mamman, who served as Minister of Power from 2019 until his dismissal in September 2021 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, pleaded not guilty to all charges presented before the court.
The court proceedings took a dramatic turn when Mamman collapsed outside the courtroom before the commencement of the case. Immediate medical attention was provided, and he was resuscitated by the Federal High Court’s medical personnel. Despite the incident, he appeared in court visibly affected, having had water poured on him after his collapse.
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Confirming the incident, Mamman’s counsel, Femi Ate (SAN), notified the court of his client’s health scare, prompting a brief pause in proceedings. The EFCC’s lawyer, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), acknowledged the situation and supported the request for an adjournment due to Mamman’s condition.
Presiding Justice James Omotosho acknowledged his health predicament but decided to proceed with the arraignment after Mamman confirmed his readiness to continue. The judge noted the unpredictability of such incidents, temporarily adjourning the case until the afternoon session.
Subsequently, he was remanded in Kuje prison pending the court’s hearing of his bail application scheduled for Friday. Initially seeking an adjournment to Monday, his legal team withdrew the request due to the court’s heavy docket.
The EFCC’s charges against Mamman relate to alleged financial misconduct involving substantial sums intended for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects.
It is claimed that he participated in diverting funds and colluded with ministry staff to misappropriate public funds. His arrest occurred four months after his dismissal from ministerial duties.
The case continues to attract attention as stakeholders await further developments in the legal proceedings against the former minister.
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