Ex-Power Minister Mamman Transferred to Kuje Prison as 75-Year Sentence Commences

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has transferred former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja after a Federal High Court ordered the immediate commencement of his 75-year prison term.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Maitama, gave the directive on Tuesday when Mamman was brought before him by EFCC operatives. The judge informed the convict that his sentence, handed down on May 13, 2026, for stealing about N33.8 billion in public funds, would begin counting from that day.

“You were in Abuja when the judgment was passed. You left alone in a taxi for Kaduna. I have done my work. I just have to inform you because today is the commencement of your sentence,” Justice Omotosho told Mamman.

The former minister, who was sentenced in absentia after failing to appear for the conclusion of his trial, told the court he stayed away due to ill health. He was arrested by the EFCC in Kaduna last week.

During the proceedings, a relative identified as Shamsudeen Mohammed testified that Mamman had travelled from Abuja to Kaduna by taxi shortly after his conviction and was staying in a rented apartment in Rigasa, Kaduna, where he was receiving traditional medicine.

The court also heard an application from EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, seeking the forfeiture of five additional properties allegedly linked to Mamman. The properties include Walijam Apartments in Wuse 2, Abuja; Bloom Luxury Suites Nigeria Limited in Unguwan Rimi, Kaduna; mansions on Misratah Street, Wuse 2; and A.U.A. Plaza on Kade Street, also in Wuse 2.

Mamman’s lawyer, Femi Atteh, was absent from court. Another lawyer reportedly declined to accept the forfeiture application on his behalf and left the courtroom without explanation. The former minister told the court he had not been in contact with his counsel since his arrest on May 19, 2026.

Justice Omotosho ruled that an adjournment was necessary to give the convict a fair hearing on the forfeiture request. He directed that Mamman be served personally so he could engage a lawyer of his choice, and adjourned the matter till June 8, 2026, for hearing.