Court Dismisses No‑Case Submission in ₦33.8bn Fraud Trial of Former Minister of Power
The Federal High Court, Abuja, on Thursday dismissed the no‑case submission filed by former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, in response to the ₦33.8 billion fraud charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Delivering his decision, Justice James Omotosho held that the EFCC had successfully established a prima facie case against Mamman. The court noted that the prosecution had adduced sufficient evidence to warrant the defendant entering a defence, given the gravity of the allegations.
The judge, however, underscored the constitutional presumption of innocence, stressing that Mamman remains innocent until proven guilty.
Mamman, appointed Minister of Power in August 2019 by former President Muhammadu Buhari and removed in September 2021, faces 12 counts bordering on money laundering and conspiracy.
In charge number FHC/ABJ/CR/273/2024, the EFCC alleged that Mamman “indirectly converted” ₦33.8 billion earmarked for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects. He was arraigned in July 2024 and pleaded not guilty.
The EFCC presented 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits before closing its case. It argued that the evidence, including testimony from seven key witnesses, established the allegations beyond preliminary doubt.
On November 19, Mamman filed a no‑case submission, contending that the prosecution failed to present credible or reliable evidence sufficient to sustain a conviction or require him to enter a defence.
Justice Omotosho, in overruling the submission, stated: “I have carefully gone through the evidence presented to the court by the prosecution with respect to this charge. The evidence all point to the establishment of a prima facie case against the defendant. This is not to say that the defendant is guilty as charged, but simply that he be afforded his right to a fair hearing and put in his defence before this court.”
The matter has been adjourned to 23 February 2026 for Mamman to open his defence.
