The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Thursday ordered the remand of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, in Kuje prison.
The court’s decision followed Mamman’s plea of not guilty to a 12-count charge of money laundering brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Trial Justice James Omotosho directed that Mamman remain in custody until Friday when his bail application will be heard.
Mamman, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, is accused of involvement in a N33 billion fraud. His arrest came in 2021, about four months after he was dismissed from his ministerial position.
The EFCC alleges that Mamman conspired with ministry staff to divert approximately N22 billion earmarked for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects.
Investigations revealed that the diverted funds were used to acquire luxury assets domestically and internationally.
In a dramatic turn of events, Mamman collapsed within the court premises before his arraignment on Thursday. It took the combined efforts of lawyers and medical personnel to revive him.
Appearing frail and disoriented, Mamman entered the courtroom with his clothes partially soaked. Justice Omotosho, unaware of the incident, queried the defendant about his appearance. Mamman explained that water had been poured on him after he collapsed.
His lawyer, Mr. Femi Ate, SAN, confirmed the collapse and subsequent revival by court medical staff. Ate, SAN, stated, “Upon being brought into the premises of the court, the defendant collapsed and had to be resuscitated and treated by the medical personnel of the Federal High Court.”
Despite his condition, Mamman was served with the charge sheet and informed the court he was fit to proceed, attributing his collapse to medication taken without food.
Prosecution counsel, Mr. Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN, noted that the defendant was served an amended charge to correct a naming error. He urged the court to compel Mamman to enter his plea, which the court did after a brief adjournment.
Justice Omotosho acknowledged the heavy workload of the court and indicated that the trial could only be adjourned until September. Consequently, Ate, SAN, withdrew his application for a deferment, and the court proceeded with the plea-taking.
Mamman’s family and supporters have expressed deep concern over his health, calling for proper medical attention while he remains in custody.
The case continues to unfold as the nation watches closely, with significant implications for accountability and justice in public office.
