Former Nigerian Minister of Power Collapses in Court Premises

Former Nigerian Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, suffered a health scare outside the Federal High Court in Abuja as he appeared for a case brought forth by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges against Mamman amount to N33,804,830,503 tied to money laundering activities.

At the onset of the proceedings, Mamman’s legal representative, Femi Ate, notified Judge James Omotosho about his client’s sudden illness. Mamman, visibly affected, entered the courtroom later, revealing signs of distress as his clothing was dampened.

During the court session, Mamman was questioned by the judge about his apparent perspiration, to which he explained that water had been poured on him, possibly exacerbating his physical discomfort.

Subsequently, the EFCC prosecutor, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, shared details with the court about Mamman’s health episode outside the courtroom, acknowledging discussions held with Ate regarding the ex-minister’s condition.

Ate disclosed that Mamman collapsed upon arrival at the court premises and required emergency medical attention by the Federal High Court’s medical personnel. Despite the ordeal, Mamman was served with the charges he was facing following his revival.

Considering Mamman’s unwell state and recent circumstances, Ate sought an adjournment until Monday. However, due to the court’s heavy schedule, an alternative date in September was suggested. Eventually, the arraignment was postponed to later in the day.

In response to a fresh charge filed by the EFCC on the same morning, there was contention about re-reading the amended charge to Mamman. Regardless, Mamman, albeit having collapsed earlier, expressed readiness to proceed with the arraignment.

In previous incidents, Mamman was previously arrested over allegations of diverting about N22 billion in collusion with officials at the Ministry regarding the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects. His tenure as Minister of Power was under former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2019 until his dismissal in September 2021.

The case against Mamman highlights broader corruption issues within Nigeria‘s power sector, illustrating the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to tackle financial misconduct at the highest levels of government.