Ex-minister allegedly diverts N33.8 billion Mambilla project funds to buy Abuja properties
By Uzair Adam
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja heard testimony from Abubakar Kweido, the first prosecution witness (PW1), in the trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman.
Kweido testified that Mamman allegedly used funds from the Mambilla Hydro project account to purchase properties in Abuja.
According to Solacebase, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged Mamman with 12 counts of conspiracy and money laundering involving N33.8 billion.
During Wednesday’s proceedings, Kweido, an EFCC operative, stated that funds released to the former minister were traced to properties in Kado Estate and Wuse 2, Abuja.
Kweido also revealed that the investigation findings were presented to Mamman, who denied any connection to the properties.
Mamman claimed that his personal assistant, Maisbahu Idris, was responsible for receiving funds from the Mambilla project accountant and distributing them among ministry staff.
Further investigation led to a search of Mamman’s residence, where foreign currency and corporate documents belonging to Abangus Nig. Ltd, a company allegedly used to facilitate the diversion of funds, were discovered.
Payment vouchers and cash recovered at the former minister’s residence were admitted as evidence.
The trial will resume on October 23, 2024, before Justice James Omotosho.