The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, who is facing a 12-count charge of alleged involvement in a ₦33 billion fraud. The bail was set at ₦10 billion with stringent conditions attached.
Justice James Omotosho, who is presiding over the case, stipulated that Mamman must provide two sureties, each owning landed properties worth at least ₦750 million within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Additionally, the sureties are required to present a three-year tax clearance certificate, swear an affidavit of means, and submit their recent bank statements and passport photographs.
Further tightening the bail conditions, Justice Omotosho directed Mamman to surrender his international passport to the court’s registrar, who must verify all documents before his release from custody. Alternatively, the court allowed for a bank guarantee or bond of ₦10 billion if suitable sureties were not forthcoming.
The trial has been adjourned to September 25, pending the perfection of the bail conditions.
Mamman, who was previously remanded in Kuje prison, made his plea for bail through his lead counsel, Mr. Femi Ate, SAN. He argued that his continued detention was unnecessary given his compliance with previous administrative bail terms set by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over two years ago. He assured the court of his presence at all future hearings and non-interference with witnesses.
The EFCC’s lawyer, Mr. A.O. Mohammed, did not oppose the bail request but emphasized the necessity of ensuring Mamman’s attendance at his trial.
The allegations against Mamman involve the misappropriation of ₦22 billion earmarked for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects, with the funds allegedly diverted to acquire assets both domestically and internationally.
