Ex–Power Minister Saleh Mamman absent as court delivers judgment in ₦33.8bn fraud case

Former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, was absent in court on Thursday as the Federal High Court in Abuja proceeded with judgment in his alleged ₦33.8 billion money laundering trial.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court resumed proceedings in the long-running case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/273/2024 after parties had been duly served with hearing notices indicating that judgment would be delivered.

When the matter was called, Mamman was not present in court, prompting his counsel, Mohammed Ahmed, to inform the court that efforts to reach the former minister had been unsuccessful.

According to the defence lawyer, the defendant had not been reachable since receiving notice that judgment would be delivered, although an associate later reportedly informed them that he was “indisposed.”

However, no medical report was presented to substantiate claims of ill-health.

Counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, urged the court to proceed, arguing that there was no credible justification for the defendant’s absence despite being on bail and fully aware of the proceedings.

The prosecution maintained that under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, the court had the discretion to continue with judgment delivery, especially where no satisfactory explanation was provided.

While defence counsel initially requested an adjournment, he later aligned with the prosecution’s position, stating that the court could proceed with judgment and address sentencing later if necessary.

Justice Omotosho expressed concern over the absence of the defendant without medical proof and reminded counsel of their duty as “ministers in the temple of justice,” before proceeding with the ruling.

The EFCC had filed a 12-count amended charge against Mamman, accusing him of conspiracy and money laundering involving the diversion of ₦33.8 billion earmarked for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects.

The anti-graft agency alleged that funds were siphoned through ministry officials and private companies, and in some instances converted into foreign currency via Bureau de Change operators.

Mamman, who was arraigned in July 2024, pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The judgment was still being delivered at the time of filing this report.