The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a no-case submission filed by former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, ruling that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has established a prima facie case against him.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the ruling on Thursday, holding that the evidence presented by the EFCC requires the former minister to offer explanations or open his defence due to the seriousness of the allegations.
The judge stressed that the ruling does not amount to a conviction, noting that Mamman remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Mamman, appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019 and removed in 2021, faces a 12-count amended charge filed by the EFCC. He was arraigned in July 2024 for alleged money laundering and conspiracy to divert N33.8 billion earmarked for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydropower projects. He has pleaded not guilty.
The EFCC called 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits before closing its case. Mamman subsequently filed a no-case submission on November 19, arguing through his lawyer that the prosecution failed to produce credible evidence linking him to the offences.
The EFCC opposed the application, insisting its witness testimonies and exhibits clearly established a case requiring the defendant’s response.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho said the evidence presented “all points to the establishment of a prima facie case,” adding that even a slight connection to the alleged offences is sufficient at this stage to require a defence.
He emphasised that the defendant’s right to fair hearing under Section 36 of the Constitution must be upheld, and noted that while a defendant may choose to rest on the prosecution’s case or file a no-case submission, Mamman has not waived his right to defend himself.
The judge therefore overruled the no-case submission and ordered Mamman to open his defence.
The matter was adjourned to February 23, 2026, for the defendant to begin his defence.
