Olushola Omogbehin
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, days after he was sentenced in absentia over alleged diversion of more than N33 billion meant for the Mambilla power project and other electricity schemes.
Olukoyede said he was arrested in Rigasa, Kaduna State, while allegedly hiding under protection from accomplices.
Rigasa is located in Igabi Local Government Area of the state, the largest community in Kaduna, with a population of about 2 million residents.
His arrest on Tuesday came days after a court ordered security agencies to arrest him after his conviction on 12 counts in connection with alleged fraud.
Announcing the arrest during a media briefing in Abuja, EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, said the former minister was apprehended around 3:30 a.m. in Kaduna after rigorous intelligence and surveillance operations.
“Ladies and gentlemen, you will recall that sometime in January 2025, charges were finally filed against the former Minister for allegedly obtaining over N33 billion meant for the Mambilla and other power projects.
“About 14 or 15 months down the line, specifically on the 7th of this month, we secured conviction on all 12 counts.
“However, because the main defendant was not present, the issue of sentencing was deferred.
“On the 13th of this month, he was sentenced in absentia. Since then, we have intensified our intelligence, surveillance and recovery operations in search of him.
“I am happy to announce to Nigerians that at about 3:30 a.m. this morning, we arrested Mr Saleh Mamman somewhere in Kaduna,” he announced
Describing the arrest as evidence of the Federal Government’s readiness to fight corruption, Olukoyede said public officials accused of looting public funds would eventually face justice.
He said: “This is a testament to the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria to the fight against corruption and an assurance to Nigerians that anyone who has looted government and national resources will not go unpunished.
“The eagle eye of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission will always catch up with you wherever you are.”
Providing further details, EFCC boss said:
“I told you the man was arrested at about 3:30 a.m. this morning, and there was no way we could immediately take him to a correctional facility. We have our own facilities,” he said.
