Following Saleh Mamman‘s conviction for embezzling over N33 billion linked to the Mambilla power project and other electricity initiatives, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced that it has detained the former Minister of Power.
After being convicted on 12 counts and sentenced in absentia to 75 years in prison on May 7, the court also issued an arrest order for him.
During a media briefing in Abuja, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede made the announcement. He said that the former minister was captured in Kaduna early on Tuesday morning following increased intelligence and surveillance efforts.
He said: “Ladies and gentlemen, you will recall that sometime in January 2025, charges were finally filed against the former Minister for allegedly obtaining over N33 billion meant for the Mambilla and other power projects.
“About 14 or 15 months down the line, specifically on the 7th of this month, we secured conviction on all 12 counts.
“However, because the main defendant was not present, the issue of sentencing was deferred.
“On the 13th of this month, he was sentenced in absentia. Since then, we have intensified our intelligence, surveillance and recovery operations in search of him.
“I am happy to announce to Nigerians that at about 3:30 a.m. this morning, we arrested Mr Saleh Mamman somewhere in Kaduna.”
“This is a testament to the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria to the fight against corruption and an assurance to Nigerians that anyone who has looted government and national resources will not go unpunished.
“The eagle eye of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission will always catch up with you wherever you are.”
Responding to questions, the EFCC chairman confirmed that Mamman is currently in the commission’s custody.
“Yes, he is in our custody at the moment,” he said.
On whether the former minister had been moved to a correctional facility, Olukoyede explained that the process was ongoing due to the timing of the arrest.
“That is fine. I told you the man was arrested at about 3:30 a.m. this morning, and there was no way we could immediately take him to a correctional facility. We have our own facilities,” he added.
No matter where you try to run or hide, nemesis will inevitably catch up with you. Justice has a way of finding its path, ensuring that every action, whether good or bad, is accounted for in the end.
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Rose Ajieh
