Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a no-case submission filed by former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, ruling that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented sufficient evidence to warrant his defence.
Delivering the ruling on Thursday, December 11, the judge said the prosecution had established a prima facie case that required explanation from Mamman.
“The evidence tendered was such that the defendant must proffer some explanations, or put in a defence to the allegation made against him, especially considering the seriousness of the offences,” Justice Omotosho stated.
He, however, stressed that the former minister remains innocent until proven guilty.
Mamman, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, was arraigned in July 2024 on a 12-count amended charge of money laundering and conspiracy to “indirectly convert” ₦33.8 billion meant for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects. He pleaded not guilty.
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The EFCC called 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits before resting its case, while Mamman filed a no-case submission on November 19, arguing that the prosecution had failed to prove its allegations.
But the EFCC countered that its evidence established a case that demanded a defence.
Justice Omotosho ruled that the ex-minister must now proceed to testify and address the evidence against him.
“This defendant, having not waived his right to defend himself either expressly or by conduct and the no-case submission made by him having been overruled, he is hereby called upon to put in his defence,” he said.
The judge emphasised that a no-case ruling did not imply guilt but allowed the defendant to exercise his constitutional right to fair hearing.
The case was adjourned until February 23, 2026, for Mamman to open his defence.