Nigeria’s former Energy Minister, Saleh Mamman, has received a 75-year prison sentence for laundering 33.8 billion Naira, which equates to approximately GHS 337 million. A court convicted Mamman on 12 financial crime counts last week, a decision that signifies a rare major conviction of a high-ranking public official in Nigeria for corruption.
Prosecutors established that Mamman used private companies to move money. These funds were connected to government-funded power projects during his tenure. The 68-year-old minister received his sentence in absentia on Wednesday because authorities could not locate him. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed Mamman remains missing since his conviction.
This case fits into a broader anti-corruption drive targeting former government officials in Nigeria. Ghana, a close regional neighbour, also grapples with public finance accountability, making such high-profile convictions in Nigeria relevant. Nigeria's government under former President Muhammadu Buhari, and current administration, has repeatedly pledged to fight corruption and improve accountability. Data shows corruption consistently drains national resources, hindering economic growth and development across West Africa.
The EFCC stated Mamman has been “out of circulation” and “without trace” since his conviction. A high court in Abuja issued an arrest warrant for him on Monday, May 11. Mamman served as Nigeria’s power minister from 2015 to 2021. He had announced intentions to contest the 2027 governorship election in Taraba State, mere weeks before his sentencing.
The court also ordered Mamman to return 22 billion Naira, approximately GHS 219 million. This conviction renews public frustration over Nigeria’s persistent electricity problems and lack of reliable power. Mamman had promised to improve power supply during his time in office. Nigeria, despite being a major energy producer, still experiences severe electricity shortages.
Frequent blackouts disrupt homes and businesses daily, forcing many to rely on fuel-powered generators. Rising fuel costs exacerbate financial pressure on millions of Nigerians. This situation underscores the critical need for transparent governance and efficient use of public funds in vital sectors like energy. Investor confidence and overall economic stability depend heavily on how governments address such issues.
The EFCC is also investigating other senior figures, including former Justice Minister Abubakar Malami and former Humanitarian Affairs Minister Sadiya Umar Farouq. The agency recently declared Farouq wanted. Both former ministers deny any wrongdoing. The outcome of these ongoing investigations will further shape Nigeria's anti-corruption narrative and potentially impact future economic policy.