The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released photographs of former Power Minister Saleh Mamman in handcuffs after his arrest in Kaduna State. The anti-graft agency announced the arrest early Tuesday, May 19, 2026, following Mamman's recent conviction on corruption charges.
Arrest Details and Background
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede confirmed that Mamman was apprehended at approximately 3:30 a.m. in Kaduna. The former minister had been convicted on May 7, 2026, on all 12 counts of corruption and sentenced in absentia to 75 years in prison. Despite the sentence, Mamman had announced plans to run for governor of Taraba State in the 2027 elections under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Court Sentence and Forfeiture
Justice James Omotosho sentenced Mamman to seven years each on 10 counts, with additional terms of three years and two years on counts four and five. The sentences are to run consecutively without the option of a fine, except for count four which carries a N10 million fine. The court also ordered the forfeiture of foreign currencies recovered from Mamman and four choice properties in Abuja.
Mamman served as Minister of Power from August 2019 to September 2021 under former President Muhammadu Buhari. He oversaw major hydroelectric projects, including Mambilla and Zungeru, before being removed in a cabinet reshuffle. His conviction has reignited public anger over Nigeria's persistent electricity crisis, as the country continues to experience chronic power shortages despite being a major energy producer.
Public Reaction and Related Cases
The trending photos of Mamman in handcuffs have sparked widespread discussion on social media. In a separate case, the EFCC also arraigned social media influencer Blessing CEO for allegedly obtaining N36 million by false pretence and theft.
