Former Nigerian minister jailed for 75 years in rare corruption verdict
Nigeria's former Power Minister Saleh Mamman has been sentenced to 75 years in prison for diverting $33.8 million in state funds. The verdict marks a rare heavyweight corruption ruling for the country, but Mamman's whereabouts remain unknown.
The Federal High Court in Abuja found former Power Minister Saleh Mamman guilty of diverting $33.8 million from public infrastructure budgets. The judge said the ruling 'underlines the message on protecting public resources'; the sentence stacks consecutive penalties across five separate charges.
Mamman served in former President Muhammadu Buhari's cabinet between 2019 and 2022. The investigation was built on reports from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. Lawyers tracking the case say their client is currently in the United Arab Emirates and an international arrest warrant is expected.
For decades, Nigeria has rarely secured convictions in its highest-profile corruption cases. The 75-year sentence therefore adds a concrete reference point to the Tinubu government's 'rule of law' messaging; critics argue the real test will be whether the defendant is brought home to serve it.
More from Africa
African fans face World Cup hurdles despite visa bond U-turn
The Trump administration has waived a $15,000 visa bond for fans from five countries who hold World Cup tickets. BBC reports that African supporters still face significant travel and visa challenges despite the move.
Senior IS leader killed in joint US-Nigeria operation, officials say
Donald Trump said US and Nigerian forces had killed senior Islamic State commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in a joint operation. Trump described al-Minuki as "the most active terrorist in the world".
Mali junta leader names himself defence minister after predecessor killed
Mali's military junta leader has assumed the role of defence minister after his predecessor, Sadio Camara, was killed in a major offensive by combined jihadist and separatist forces.