JUST IN: Ex-Power Minister Saleh Mamman Sentenced to 75 Years for ₦33.8bn Fraud On May 14, 2026, the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman to 75 years in prison after convicting him on all 12 counts of money laundering brought by the EFCC. The court found him guilty of laundering ₦33.8 billion ($24.71 million) through private companies. Prosecutors said the funds were proceeds linked to government-financed hydroelectric projects, including the Mambilla and Zungeru power plants. Mamman was sentenced in absentia, and the court ordered Nigerian and international security agencies to arrest him. The EFCC Called it a rare conviction against corrupt officials and a win for accountability in public office. Many Nigerians on social media welcomed the verdict, saying it sends a message that no one is above the law. Others are skeptical, questioning if the sentence will actually be enforced since Mamman was tried in absentia. Groups say "the case highlights how corruption in the power sector has worsened Nigeria’s electricity crisis." Security agencies need to act quickly to arrest and extradite Mamman to serve his sentence. The EFCC and ICPC should speed up other high-profile corruption cases to restore public trust. Government must tighten controls on funds meant for power projects to prevent future looting. Recovered funds should be redirected to fix Nigeria’s power infrastructure. The sentencing of Saleh Mamman is a significant step in Nigeria’s fight against corruption, especially in the power sector. If followed through with enforcement and asset recovery, it could deter other officials from misusing public funds. But the real test is whether the law will be applied consistently and without political interference. Beloud