The Conviction
Seventy-five years behind bars – that was the judgment handed down by Justice James Omotosho on May 13, 2026. The Federal High Court in Abuja delivered the ruling after finding Saleh Mamman guilty.
Once Nigeria’s Minister of Power between 2019 and 2021, he now faces decades due to crimes involving N33.8 billion. Money laundering and fraud formed the core of the case against him. Conviction came after months of courtroom scrutiny. Though once a top government figure, his fall ended in a packed sentencing hall. The judge showed no leniency when announcing the term. Three digits marked the penalty: seventy-five cold years.
Out of sight, Mamman missed the sentencing – nobody knows where he is. His lawyer told the courtroom they could not get hold of him, so the judge decided this disappearance looked intentional. Justice felt blocked on purpose.
Important Points From The Decision
Twelve separate charges stuck. Though officials said the money was meant for Zungeru and Mambilla dams, Mamman ended up steering it elsewhere. Each count came from the EFCC. Every one found him guilty
One after another, the sentences will stack up instead of overlapping. Ten counts carry seven years apiece, lined up back to back. On top of those, more time gets added for the rest. Each stretch of punishment follows the last without pause.
Four high-end homes in Abuja were seized by order of the court, along with several amounts of foreign cash found during investigations. Repayment of whatever remains from the missing 22 billion naira must now be returned by Mamman. That decision followed legal proceedings that confirmed the assets were acquired through illicit means.
Out of the shadows came a sharp warning. While delivering judgment, Justice Omotoso called out Mamman for enjoying luxury during his tenure. His hunger for more had worsened Nigeria’s long struggle with electricity. Because of choices like his, lights stay off across homes and streets.
Current Status
A judge named Omotosho gave orders today. A search is now underway across borders. Security forces nationwide are involved. The order came down clearly – find Mamman quickly. Interpol joined the effort right away. Arrest comes before any further steps. Handover must go straight to correctional officers. No delays allowed by court directive. Action follows failure to appear. Legal process moves without him.
On that date, when officers take him into custody, his seventy-five years behind bars start. He won’t wait long – confinement kicks in the moment they arrest him. That day marks zero hour for the sentence hanging over him. Once locked up, time begins its slow count forward. From first detention onward, each year gets tallied without pause. The calendar does not rest, starting right where custody begins.
