A Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected the no‑case submission filed by former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, in his N33.8 billion fraud trial, clearing the way for him to open his defence.
Justice James Omotosho ruled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had presented sufficient evidence for the case to proceed. The anti‑graft agency alleges that Mamman, during his tenure as Minister of Power from 2019 to 2021, conspired with ministry officials and private companies to misappropriate funds allocated for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects.
Mamman, who was arraigned in July 2024, had pleaded not guilty to a 12‑count charge of money laundering and conspiracy. He asked the court to throw out the case, claiming the prosecution’s evidence was weak, but the judge disagreed.
The prosecution presented testimony from 17 witnesses and submitted 43 exhibits before closing its case. Justice Omotosho emphasised that Mamman remains presumed innocent until proven guilty, but the evidence was strong enough to require a formal defence.
The court has adjourned the matter to February 23, 2026, for the former minister to begin his defence.
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