Court Orders Former Power Minister Saleh Mamman to Enter Defence in N33.8bn Fraud Trial

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman’s bid to end his trial early, ruling that he must enter his defence in the N33.8 billion money laundering case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Justice James Omotosho gave the ruling on Thursday while rejecting Mamman’s no-case submission. The judge held that the prosecution had presented enough material to establish a prima facie case, making it necessary for the defendant to respond to the allegations.

According to the judge, the evidence presented by the EFCC required explanations from Mamman, especially given the seriousness of the offences. He stated that the court could not stop the trial at this stage and that the defendant must address the issues raised by the prosecution.

The EFCC arraigned Mamman in July 2024 on 12 counts of money laundering and conspiracy. The commission alleged that he worked with ministry officials and private companies to indirectly convert N33.8 billion earmarked for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects.

Mamman, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari from August 2019 until his removal in September 2021, pleaded not guilty to all charges, prompting a full trial.

After his plea, the EFCC called 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits before closing its case. Mamman, instead of opening his defence, filed a no-case submission on 19 November, arguing that the prosecution failed to link him to the alleged offences. The EFCC opposed his application.

In his ruling, Justice Omotosho sided with the prosecution, insisting that a prima facie case had been established. He ordered Mamman to open his defence, noting that the court would not evaluate the strength of the evidence until the conclusion of the trial.

The judge emphasised that the ruling did not amount to a finding of guilt. He reminded the parties that the defendant remained presumed innocent until proven otherwise and that the prosecution still carried the burden of proving the charges beyond reasonable doubt.

Justice Omotosho added that allowing Mamman to present his defence was necessary to ensure fairness and to address unresolved issues before the court reaches a final decision.