Judge rejects Mamman’s no-case bid, orders defence in ₦33.8bn fraud

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a no-case submission filed by former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, and ordered him to open his defence in the ₦33.8 billion money laundering charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Ruling on Thursday, Justice James Omotosho held that the prosecution had established a prima facie case requiring Mamman to respond to the allegations.

He noted that the evidence presented by the EFCC—including testimonies from 17 witnesses and 43 admitted exhibits—was sufficient to demand explanations from the defendant.

“The evidence all points to the establishment of a prima facie case against the defendant.

“This is not to say he is guilty, but he must be afforded the opportunity to put up a defence,” the judge said, adding that Mamman remains presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

Mamman had filed the no-case submission on November 19, 2025, after the EFCC closed its case.

The court, however, ruled that he must enter his defence in accordance with Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution, stressing that unresolved issues in the prosecution’s evidence require clarification.

The former minister is facing 12 counts bordering on conspiracy and money laundering involving ₦33,804,830,503.73.

Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter to February 23, 2026, for Mamman to begin his defence.