EFCC introduces new witnesses in ₦33.8bn Saleh Mamman fraud case

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) continued its prosecution of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, by presenting four additional witnesses on Monday in the ongoing trial over allegations of conspiracy and money laundering involving a sum of ₦33.8 billion.

  

During the court proceedings, the EFCC’s counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), informed the court of the commission’s decision to strengthen its case against the defendant by calling on witnesses who are key compliance officers from various banks. These witnesses include Mishelia R.B from Zenith Bank, Mayowa Itiku from UBA, Lily Marama from GTB, and Oluwunmi Ogunloye from Wema Bank. Their testimonies centered around financial records and account details relevant to the ongoing investigation.

  

Saleh Mamman[/figure]  

Led in evidence by Oyedepo, the witnesses testified that they had received official letters from the EFCC requesting information about account openings and financial transactions associated with ten entities. These entities include Sami Court Resort Limited, Golden Bond Nigeria Limited, Samson Bitrus, Gurupche Business Enterprise, Shipikin Global Enterprises, Silverline Ventures, Breathable Investment Ltd, First Class Contraction Ltd, Spinhillls Biz International Ltd, and Fulex Utility Concept Ltd.

  

The compliance officers further confirmed that they provided account statements and related details as requested by the EFCC. The submitted documents were obtained directly from their respective bank databases, ensuring their authenticity and accuracy. Bundles of these documents, which were deemed crucial to the prosecution’s case, were tendered before the court and admitted as evidence following due process.

  

Justice Omotosho, who is presiding over the trial, accepted the presented evidence and commended the efforts of all involved parties for maintaining a structured and orderly trial process. Following the presentation of the witnesses, Justice Omotosho adjourned the proceedings to January 22, 23, and 24, 2025, to allow for further deliberation and presentation of additional evidence.

  

As highlighted in earlier reports, Saleh Mamman is facing a 12-count charge of conspiracy and money laundering brought against him by the EFCC. The charges relate to alleged financial mismanagement and diversion of public funds during his tenure as Minister of Power. The EFCC has accused Mamman and his associates of laundering ₦33.8 billion through a network of companies and individuals.

  

The ongoing trial is being closely monitored by the public and legal experts, as it sheds light on issues of accountability and transparency within the country’s public service sector. The EFCC’s continued efforts to present witnesses and substantial evidence are seen as part of its broader mandate to combat corruption and promote integrity in Nigeria’s financial and governance systems.

  

While Mamman continues to maintain his innocence, the trial is expected to provide further insights into the allegations and evidence, ultimately determining the course of justice in this high-profile case.