In the ongoing trial of the former Minister of Power, Sale Mamman, over the alleged misappropriation of N33.8 billion from the Mambilla Hydro project, a key witness has revealed that some of the funds were used to purchase high-end properties in Abuja.
On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Abubakar Kweido, the first prosecuting witness (PW1), testified before the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, that Mamman allegedly used the diverted funds to acquire properties in Kado Estate and Wuse 2. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Mamman on a 12-count charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Led by prosecution counsel Olumide Fusica, SAN, Kweido, an EFCC operative, explained that during the investigation, they discovered that funds from the Mambilla Hydro project's account were funneled to purchase these Abuja properties. Kweido added that during questioning, the former minister denied owning the properties, blaming his personal assistant, Maisbahu Idris, for handling the disbursement of project funds within the ministry.
Kweido further testified that during a search of Mamman’s residence, foreign currencies and documents from Abangus Nigeria Ltd—a company allegedly used in the fraud—were recovered. Payment vouchers for the company and cash exhibits were admitted into evidence.
Justice Omotosho has adjourned the case to October 23, 2024, for the continuation of the trial. The case highlights significant concerns over the handling of public funds for key national projects like the Mambilla Hydro scheme, as allegations of personal enrichment take center stage.
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