In a case that has gripped the nation’s attention, the Federal High Court has granted bail to Saleh Mamman, the former Minister of Power, who is at the centre of a staggering N33 billion money laundering scandal. Charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mamman faces 12 counts related to this high-profile corruption case.
Court’s Bail Conditions
Justice James Omotosho, in his ruling, granted Mamman bail on the condition of a N10 billion sum, coupled with two sureties of the same amount. The court specified stringent requirements for the sureties:
1. Land Ownership: The sureties must possess landed properties within the Federal Capital Territory, with a minimum valuation of N750 million.
2. Tax Clearance: They must submit their three-year tax clearance certificates.
3. Affidavit of Means: An affidavit of means is required from the sureties.
4. Bank Statements: Certified copies of their bank statements, along with recent passport photographs, must be provided.
Alternatively, the court permitted the submission of a bank guarantee or bond worth N10 billion. Additionally, Mamman must surrender his international passport to the court’s Registrar, who will verify all documents before his release from custody.
Court Proceedings and Defendant’s Plea
Mamman, who served during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, pleaded not guilty to all charges. His counsel, Femi Ate (SAN), had filed a bail application which was initially not in the court file, leading to Mamman’s remand in prison until the hearing.
The bail application, dated July 11, 2024, referenced the provisions of Sections 35 and 36 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and Sections 158 and 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015. Mamman argued that he had been on administrative bail for over two years without violating any conditions and pledged his commitment to attending his trial.
Prosecution’s Stance
The EFCC, represented by lawyer A. O. Mohammed, did not object to the bail but requested that the court impose stringent conditions to ensure Mamman’s presence at trial. The anti-graft agency has accused Mamman of conspiring with ministry staff to divert approximately N22 billion intended for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects, using the funds to acquire properties both domestically and abroad.
Adjournment and Next Steps
The court has adjourned the matter to September 25, 2024, for hearing. Meanwhile, Mamman remains in prison custody pending the fulfillment of his bail conditions.
Bottom Line
The legal proceedings against Saleh Mamman underscore the Nigerian judiciary’s ongoing battle against corruption. As the former minister awaits trial, the nation’s focus remains on the Federal High Court’s next move in this landmark case, setting a precedent for how high-profile corruption cases are handled in Nigeria.
