Court Sentences Former Power Minister Saleh Mamman to 75 Years Over Corruption Case

Ex-minister convicted over multi-billion naira fraud linked to Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects

By Chisom Adaeze

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court has sentenced former Nigerian Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years in prison following his conviction on corruption charges connected to the controversial Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.

The judgment, delivered on Wednesday, marks one of the most significant corruption-related convictions involving a former cabinet official in recent years. The court found Mamman guilty on a 12-count charge bordering on money laundering, diversion of public funds, and abuse of office linked to billions of naira allocated for major electricity infrastructure projects.

Justice Omotosho ruled that the sentences attached to the various counts would run consecutively, resulting in a combined jail term of 75 years. The judge further stated that the prison sentence would officially begin from the date the former minister is arrested.

In addition, the court ordered security agencies across the country to arrest Mamman wherever he is found and ensure that the judgment is enforced immediately.

The court also directed that all funds and properties already traced to the former minister be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government. Mamman was equally ordered to refund the outstanding balance connected to the alleged N22 billion linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.

The Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project, one of Nigeria’s largest proposed energy projects, has faced years of controversy, delays, legal disputes, and allegations of corruption despite repeated promises to improve electricity supply nationwide. The Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Project has also remained under public scrutiny over funding concerns and implementation challenges.

Prosecutors argued during the trial that funds meant for the development of critical power infrastructure were unlawfully diverted through multiple transactions and private accounts. According to the prosecution, the alleged mismanagement contributed to delays affecting projects expected to strengthen Nigeria’s struggling electricity sector.

The conviction has generated widespread reactions across the country, with anti-corruption advocates describing the ruling as a major test of accountability within Nigeria’s public sector. Some analysts believe the case could signal increased pressure on public officials accused of financial misconduct, especially involving infrastructure and energy projects.

Others, however, say the judgment highlights long-standing concerns about corruption and inefficiency within Nigeria’s power sector, which continues to face challenges including poor electricity supply, inadequate infrastructure, and funding controversies.

Legal observers note that the former minister may still pursue an appeal against the judgment, although no official statement had been released by his legal team at the time of reporting.

The development comes amid renewed national conversations around transparency, public accountability, and the management of large-scale government projects in Nigeria.