By Atoyebi Nike
The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a no-case submission filed by former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman in his ongoing corruption trial.
Justice James Omotosho ruled on Thursday that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had presented evidence strong enough to require the ex-minister to enter a defence.
The EFCC is prosecuting Mamman on a 12-count amended charge for allegedly conspiring with ministry officials and private companies to divert N33.8 billion earmarked for the Zungeru and Mambilla power projects. He was arraigned in July 2024 and pleaded not guilty.
Seventeen witnesses and 43 documentary exhibits were tendered before the prosecution closed its case. Mamman later argued that the evidence was insufficient to warrant a defence, but the EFCC countered that the records established a clear prima facie case.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho held that the prosecution’s evidence must be answered, stressing that the defendant remains presumed innocent but must explain his role in the allegations.
The court rejected the no-case submission and ordered Mamman to open his defence, affirming that this step is part of his constitutional right to a fair hearing.
The matter was adjourned to February 23, 2026, for the former minister to begin his defence.
