By Balogun Tumininu.
The trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, resumed on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented its 8th witness, Abdullahi Suleman, a bureau de change operator, who testified that he received over N22 billion from the Federal Ministry of Power during Mamman’s tenure.
Suleman revealed that the money was exchanged for US dollars through his business accounts, and he admitted to receiving funds from the ministry without providing any services or executing projects. He implicated several companies, including Prymint Investment Limited, Strong Field International Projects Limited, and Mintedge Nigeria Limited, among others.
The witness also mentioned his dealings with Alhaji Maina Goje and Mr. Mustapha Muhammed, stating that he received instructions from them regarding the transactions. He confirmed receiving several large transactions, including N285,983,285 on May 24, 2021, and N278,248,611 on May 26, 2021.
Mamman is facing a 12-count charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering, involving N33,804,830,503.73. The judge adjourned the matter until Thursday, January 23rd, 2025, for further hearing.