EFCC Presents New Video Evidence in ₦33.8 Billion Fraud Case Against Former Power Minister Saleh Mamman

EFCC Presents New Video Evidence in ₦33.8 Billion Fraud Case Against Former Power Minister Saleh Mamman

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday introduced new video evidence during the ongoing trial of Saleh Mamman, former Minister of Power under the Buhari administration, at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The footage, played during a trial-within-trial, was intended to demonstrate that Mamman’s confessional statements were made voluntarily, contrary to his claims of coercion.

Mamman is currently facing 12 charges of alleged money laundering involving ₦33.8 billion, linked to the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects. The EFCC alleges that the former minister conspired to embezzle the funds during his time in office.

During the proceedings, the prosecution led by Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) called Abubakar Kwaido, an EFCC investigator, to the witness stand. Kwaido refuted allegations of intimidation or pressure during Mamman’s interrogation, stating, “At no point did I harass or threaten him with detention.”

He added, “My superior even asked him whether he was able to write, but he opted for his lawyer to make the statement on his behalf.”

In the video recording, Mamman appeared calm as he recounted making three cash payments of ₦5 million each, explaining his choice to avoid bank transactions due to his position as a public servant.

“I didn’t make transfers or deposit the money into his account. I handed him cash,” Mamman said in the recording.
“As a civil servant who had stepped away from business, I was cautious.”

He further mentioned interactions with an individual named Sam regarding a property in Kado, noting that he needed to retrieve the house documents. Another clip detailed the joint purchase of a property in Wuse, Abuja, allegedly made through a House of Representatives member who used another name for the transaction.

“We bought the house for about ₦30 to ₦35 million in installments. Eventually, I left office without receiving the documents,” he said.

Mamman also accused Abubakar Bida, accountant for the Mambilla project, and his assistant Musbahu Idris, of misconduct, while acknowledging his own role in the matter.

“Regardless of how I feel, I benefitted—because people close to me did,” he admitted.
“That’s why I got involved.”

He explained that due to ongoing health challenges, he had requested his lawyer to assist in documenting his statement.

“I’m not in good health, and I’ve been advised not to stress myself. That’s why I asked my lawyer to write it,” Mamman added.

Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case until April 14 for the continuation of the trial.