Korede Abdullah in Lagos
A shocking revelation emerged in the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Wednesday, as Abubakar Kweido, the first prosecuting witness, testified against former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman. Kweido, an operative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alleged that Mamman used funds from the Mambilla Hydro project’s account to purchase properties in Abuja.
The details of the trial was contained in a press statement released on Wednesday by Dele Oyewale, the Spokesperson of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC is prosecuting Mamman on a 12-count charge bordering on conspiracy to commit money laundering to the tune of N33,804,830,503.73. During the proceedings, Kweido revealed that investigations showed that some funds released to Mamman were used to acquire properties in Kado Estate and Wuse 2, Abuja.
Under questioning by prosecution counsel Olumide Fusica, SAN, Kweido detailed the investigation’s findings. Mamman allegedly denied any connection to the properties, claiming that his Personal Assistant, Maisbahu Idris, received money from the Project Accountant to share with ministry staff.
However, a search of Mamman’s residence uncovered foreign currencies and CAC documents of Abangus Nig. Ltd, an entity allegedly used to divert funds from the Mambilla project account.
The prosecution tendered payment vouchers for Bangus Nig. Ltd and an exhibit form for the recovered cash, which were admitted as evidence. Justice James Omotosho adjourned the matter to October 23, 2024, for continuation of the trial.
The Mambilla Hydro project has been plagued by allegations of corruption, with another former Power Minister, Olu Agunloye, also facing trial for alleged fraud in the $6 billion project. As the trial unfolds, Nigerians will be watching closely to see justice served.
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