CACOL Commends EFCC, Judiciary For Jailing Of Former Power Minister, Saleh Mamman

The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian judiciary for the successful prosecution, conviction and sentencing of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, over the ₦33.8 billion money laundering and fraud case.

In a release signed by the organization’s Director of Administration and Programmes, Tola Oresanwo on behalf of the organization’s Chairman, Debo Adeniran, CACOL described the judgement sentencing the former minister to 75 years imprisonment as a landmark victory in the fight against corruption and a strong signal that no public office holder is above the law.

The CACOL Chairman noted that “the conviction reinforces public confidence in the anti-corruption war and demonstrates that accountability and justice can still prevail despite the numerous challenges confronting the nation’s judicial and law enforcement institutions.”

He further called on all relevant local security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Immigration Service, and other intelligence and security networks, to work in synergy with the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) to facilitate the immediate arrest of Saleh Mamman as he is currently evading justice, and ensure that he serves his jail term accordingly.

CACOL also stressed that all properties, assets, investments, and valuables acquired by the former minister through illicit means must be identified, seized, and permanently confiscated by the government.

According to the organization, every kobo stolen from the Nigerian people should be fully recovered and returned to government coffers based on the prevailing exchange rate and current economic realities.

The organization lamented that individuals like Saleh Mamman are among the major reasons Nigerians continue to suffer perennial darkness, unstable electricity supply, and the collapse of critical power infrastructure across the country.

CACOL maintained that greed, corruption, and reckless diversion of funds meant for the development of the power sector have consistently truncated the efficiency and smooth functioning of the national power grids, thereby worsening the economic hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.

CACOL stated that funds meant for improving electricity generation, transmission, and distribution should never be converted into private wealth by corrupt public officials who place personal enrichment above national development and the welfare of the people.

The organization, therefore, applauded the EFCC for its resilience, professionalism, and commitment in prosecuting the case to a logical conclusion despite possible pressures and distractions.

CACOL also praised the judiciary for demonstrating courage and impartiality in ensuring that justice was served.

Furthermore, Mr. Debo Adeniran opined that “this remarkable feat should serve as a strong deterrent to all individuals occupying one public office or another across the country. Public office holders must understand that power is a trust bestowed upon them by the people and that their actions or inactions while in office will someday be brought to book, while the judgement they deserve will eventually be meted out to them.”

CACOL reiterated its unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption, abuse of office, and economic sabotage, while urging the government to intensify institutional reforms aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and prudent management of public resources in all sectors of the economy, especially the power sector.