Lagos, Nigeria — Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended former Power Minister Saleh Mamman, who was sentenced to 75 years in prison in absentia for corruption, marking a significant development in the nation’s ongoing battle against high-level corruption.
The arrest of Mamman, who had been in hiding since his conviction, comes after weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering by the EFCC. His conviction and subsequent arrest have sparked national and international attention, highlighting the government’s commitment to tackle corruption at the highest levels.
The EFCC had been investigating Mamman for allegations of laundering 33. 8 billion naira ($24. 65 million) and diverting funds meant for hydroelectric power projects.
A court in Abuja found him guilty on 12 counts related to the diversion of funds intended for two hydroelectric power projects, describing the action as a gross abuse of public trust. Mamman’s arrest in Kaduna state, following his conviction, marks a rare follow-through in Nigeria’s fight against high-level corruption, where convictions of top officials are uncommon. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede emphasized the importance of ensuring that the convict serves his jail term, highlighting the agency’s commitment to tackling corrupt practices.
The case has reignited public outrage over Nigeria’s troubled power sector, which has long been plagued by chronic failures and corruption. Despite being one of Africa’s biggest energy producers, Nigeria still faces frequent blackouts and power cuts, with many relying on fuel generators for electricity.
The conviction and arrest of Mamman have been widely welcomed by anti — corruption campaigners, who see it as a signal that politically exposed persons can still be held accountable under the law.
However, some have questioned whether the conviction represents selective enforcement in a country where numerous corruption allegations against public officials rarely end in convictions.
The Mamman case has also drawn attention to the role of the EFCC in combating corruption in Nigeria.
The agency has been increasingly active in recent years, with a series of high — profile arrests and convictions.
However, critics argue that more needs to be done to ensure that the fight against corruption is effective and that the rule of law is upheld.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with corruption and its impact on its power sector, the arrest of former Power Minister Saleh Mamman serves as a reminder of the government’s commitment to tackle high-level corruption and the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
