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The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, over allegations of a N33.8 billion fraud until February 18, 19, and 20.
Mamman faces a 12-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing him of conspiring to commit money laundering involving the said amount.
On January 22, the EFCC presented its eighth witness, Abdullahi Suleman, a bureau de change operator, who testified before Justice James Omotosho.
Suleman detailed how over N22 billion was allegedly funneled from the Federal Ministry of Power during Mamman’s tenure, with funds transferred to various business accounts under his control.
These transactions were reportedly used to exchange the money for U.S. dollars, with Suleman admitting that he was instructed to carry out these operations by an individual named Maina Goje, a key figure in the alleged scheme.
Suleman revealed that he had provided multiple business accounts for these transactions, including those belonging to his companies such as Prymint Investment Limited, Strong Field International Projects Limited, and Mintedge Nigeria Limited.
The funds, received in batches, were transferred without any apparent services or contracts tied to the payments.
The witness also identified additional individuals, including Mustapha Muhammed, who worked in the Federal Ministry of Housing, as being involved in the process.
During the hearing, several exhibits containing bank statements detailing large transactions were presented as evidence.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the trial after Suleman’s testimony, setting new dates for the continuation of the proceedings and cross-examination of the witness.
