Ex — Nigerian Power Minister Saleh Mamman Apprehended Following Corruption Conviction Abuja, Nigeria – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria has apprehended former Power Minister Saleh Mamman, who had been in hiding since his conviction on corruption charges. Mamman was captured in Kaduna State following a week-long operation that involved extensive surveillance and intelligence gathering.
On May 12, 2026, a Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced Mamman to 75 years in prison in absentia for his role in the laundering and fraud of 33. 8 billion naira ($24. 65 million) connected to hydroelectric power projects.
The EFCC, led by Chairman Ola Olukoyede, emphasized the significance of ensuring the former minister serves his sentence, reflecting the agency’s commitment to tackling corrupt practices seriously.
The arrest of Mamman, who served as power minister between 2019 and 2021 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, marks a rare instance of follow-through in Nigeria’s battle against high-level corruption.
The country has faced criticism for leniency in convictions of senior officials and for the mismanagement of funds in the power sector, where Mamman’s case is particularly notable for its scale and the sums involved.
The EFCC’s efforts have sparked a debate on the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures in Nigeria. While some commend the agency’s actions, others advocate for further measures to ensure accountability at the highest levels of government. Mamman’s case also highlights the challenges faced by anti-corruption agencies, including a legal system often criticized for inefficiency.
Despite ongoing challenges, the EFCC’s recent successes indicate progress in the fight against corruption.
The arrest and conviction of Mamman serve as a stark reminder of the need for sustained efforts to address this persistent issue, emphasizing the importance of strengthening anti — corruption agencies and ensuring the legal system’s effectiveness in holding wrongdoers accountable.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: BBC Africa
