Saleh Mamman
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the transfer of former Nigerian Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja following a court order directing the immediate commencement of his 75-year jail term.
The order was issued by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, after the former minister’s conviction over the alleged diversion of public funds running into billions of naira.
EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, disclosed that the anti-graft agency has also filed a fresh application seeking the forfeiture of five additional properties allegedly linked to Mamman. The application, dated May 25, was filed by Rotimi Oyedepo, the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation.
During proceedings, a relative of the former minister, Shamsudeen Mohammed, told the court that Mamman had travelled to Kaduna by taxi shortly after his conviction due to health concerns. According to him, the former minister had been receiving traditional treatment while staying in a rented apartment in the Rigasa area of Kaduna, although he could not identify the property owner.
Justice Omotosho, while addressing the defendant, stressed that the prison sentence officially began from that day, noting that the court had discharged its constitutional responsibility. Mamman, however, maintained that his absence during previous proceedings was caused by ill health.
The court also revisited its May 7 judgment in relation to the EFCC’s request for the seizure of more assets allegedly connected to the former minister. The properties listed include Walijam Apartments at Plot 435 Lobito Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja; Bloom Luxury Suites Nigeria Limited in Kaduna; two mansions located on Misratah Street, Wuse 2, Abuja; and the A.U.A. Plaza on Kade Street, Wuse 2, Abuja.
Meanwhile, Mamman’s legal team was absent during the hearing. His counsel, Femi Atteh, reportedly failed to appear despite being notified of the forfeiture application. Another lawyer believed to be representing him allegedly declined to accept court documents before leaving the courtroom without explanation. Mamman later informed the court that he had not spoken with his lawyer since his arrest on May 19.
Following the development, Justice Omotosho adjourned the forfeiture proceedings to June 8, 2026, to allow the former minister an opportunity to defend himself and secure legal representation of his choice. The court also ordered that all relevant documents be served on him personally.
It would be recalled that Saleh Mamman was sentenced on May 13, 2026, to 75 years imprisonment after being found guilty of embezzling approximately ₦33.8 billion in public funds. He was convicted in absentia after repeatedly failing to appear for the conclusion of his trial before his eventual arrest in Kaduna by EFCC operatives.
The latest developments further highlight Nigeria’s renewed anti-corruption campaign, as the EFCC intensifies efforts to recover allegedly stolen assets and ensure accountability among former public office holders. Attention now shifts to the June forfeiture hearing, where the court will determine the fate of the properties linked to the ex-minister.
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