I’mThe Federal High Court in Abuja has remanded former Power Minister Saleh Mamman in Kuje prison following his plea of not guilty to a 12-count money laundering charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges stem from allegations of his involvement in a N33 billion fraud scheme.
Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the case, ordered that Mamman remain in custody until his bail application is heard on Friday. The ex-minister, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, is facing trial over his alleged role in diverting N22 billion meant for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects. Mamman was arrested in 2021, four months after his dismissal from office by President Buhari.
Allegations and Court Proceedings
The EFCC has accused Mamman of conspiring with staff members of the Ministry of Power to siphon off funds intended for significant national infrastructure projects. The anti-graft agency’s investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly used the diverted funds to acquire luxurious properties both within Nigeria and abroad.
The courtroom drama unfolded as Mamman, appearing frail and unwell, collapsed before his arraignment. The incident took place within the court premises, where it took the combined efforts of lawyers and court medical personnel to revive him. Despite this, Mamman managed to enter the courtroom, visibly weakened and with part of his clothing drenched.
Justice Omotosho, unaware of the incident until informed by Mamman’s lawyer, Femi Ate, SAN, queried the former minister to understand the cause of his condition. Mamman explained that he had collapsed due to medication taken without food. His lawyer confirmed this, adding that the defendant had to be resuscitated by the medical team on site.
Legal Maneuverings and Future Proceedings
During the proceedings, EFCC’s counsel, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN, pushed for the case to continue despite the incident. He clarified that the defendant had been served with an amended charge to correct an error in Mamman’s name. Although Mamman’s lawyer had initially sought to defer the arraignment due to his client’s health, Justice Omotosho decided to proceed after confirming that Mamman was fit to continue.
After a brief recess to allow Mamman to recover, the court resumed and the defendant formally entered his plea. Justice Omotosho then adjourned the matter to September, citing the court’s heavy workload. This adjournment signals a lengthy legal battle ahead as the court addresses the substantive issues of the case.
The remand of Mamman in Kuje prison, a facility known for holding high-profile detainees, underscores the seriousness of the charges against him. The court’s decision to detain him until the bail hearing highlights the gravity of the alleged offenses and the potential flight risk posed by such a high-profile figure.
Source: Vanguard
