Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has dismissed a no-case submission filed by Saleh Mamman, the former Minister of Power, in the ongoing ₦33.8 billion corruption case against him. The court ruled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had established a prima facie case against Mamman, requiring him to open his defence.

Mamman, who served under the late President Muhammadu Buhari, is accused of conspiring with officials from the Ministry of Power and private companies to misappropriate ₦33.8 billion allocated for two major hydropower projects—the Zungeru and Mambilla power plants. The EFCC alleges that the funds were laundered and diverted, disappearing under Mamman’s watch.

Court’s Ruling

In his ruling, Justice Omotosho stated that the EFCC had presented substantial evidence, including the testimony of 17 witnesses and 43 exhibits, linking Mamman to the alleged diversion of funds. He noted that the evidence was strong enough to necessitate an explanation from the defendant.

Justice Omotosho made it clear that his decision to overrule the no-case submission did not imply guilt, but was rather part of the legal process requiring Mamman to defend himself against the charges. He emphasized that Mamman’s right to a fair trial, as guaranteed under Section 36 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, could not be bypassed, even by well-crafted legal arguments.

“The evidence tendered is such that the defendant must proffer some explanations or put in a defence to the allegations made against him, considering the seriousness of the offences,” the judge stated.

Mamman’s Defence

Mamman’s legal team had argued that the EFCC failed to provide credible and reliable evidence directly linking him to the alleged fraudulent actions. However, the EFCC countered by asserting that the witnesses and documents presented so far were sufficient to establish a prima facie case that Mamman must respond to.

As a result, the court has adjourned the case to February 23, 2026, when Mamman will be expected to begin his defence. The case marks a significant moment in the broader fight against corruption in Nigeria, as it joins a series of high-profile cases involving former government officials accused of massive financial mismanagement under the previous administration.

Broader Implications

The trial of Saleh Mamman adds to the growing list of ex-officials facing corruption trials, particularly in sectors such as power, aviation, humanitarian affairs, and security. These cases have sparked wider debates about the entrenched corruption in Nigeria’s public service, especially in high-stakes sectors that affect the country’s infrastructure and development.

As the trial progresses, it will serve as a key moment in the ongoing battle against corruption and impunity, potentially setting a precedent for holding public officials accountable for the mismanagement of public funds.