The EFCC arrests former Power Minister Saleh Mamman in a late-night operation after tracking and apprehending the embattled ex-minister in Rigasa, Kaduna State. Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission) moved in around 3:30am on Tuesday and took Mamman into custody despite his attempt to remain in hiding following his conviction.
The anti-graft agency confirmed that Mamman, a former Minister of Power, had evaded arrest since a Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced him in absentia to 75 years imprisonment over corruption and money laundering charges tied to major power projects. The commission’s chairman, Ola Olukoyede, disclosed the arrest during a press briefing in Abuja.
The EFCC arrests former Power Minister Saleh Mamman after operatives tracked him to a secured hideout in Kaduna, where he was allegedly protected by two individuals who were also detained during the raid. Investigators have since launched a probe into the property used to conceal him.
According to Olukoyede, the operation reflects the government’s determination to enforce accountability and ensure that individuals accused of diverting public funds face justice, regardless of how long they evade capture.
Court records show that Justice Mohammed Garba Omotosho convicted Mamman on 12 counts of fraud and money laundering involving ₦33.8 billion linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydropower projects. He was found guilty in his absence after repeatedly failing to appear in court.
Security sources also revealed that Mamman frequently changed phone numbers and SIM cards to avoid detection, but sustained surveillance eventually led EFCC operatives to his location.
The commission reiterated its warning that all suspects involved in public fund diversion will be pursued and brought before the law, stressing that ongoing investigations will continue across both public and private sectors.
