The former Minister of Power under the administration of late President Muhammadu Buhari, Salem Mamman, has been declared wanted by Nigerian authorities. This development follows the revocation of his bail and the issuance of a bench warrant for his arrest by the FCT High Court in Maitama. The warrant was issued in connection with allegations of a N31 billion fraud.
Court Orders Arrest After Absence
Justice Maryann Anineh of the trial court ordered the arrest after the former minister failed to appear for proceedings without providing any explanation. His ongoing trial is being conducted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Mamman faces charges of conspiracy, false pretence, and intent to defraud.
The court's decision came after the prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, urged the court to revoke the bail previously granted to Mamman and to continue the hearing in his absence. Oyedepo cited the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 in support of his request.
Missing Since May 7, 2026
According to the anti-graft agency, the former minister has been missing since May 7, 2026. This was the same day Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court first convicted him on a separate 12-count charge related to money laundering involving N33.8 billion. The EFCC has been actively pursuing the case.
Justice Anineh granted Oyedepo's request and ordered the arrest of the former minister. The judge also ruled that Mamman's trial will proceed in his absence. The case has been adjourned to May 14, 2026, for further proceedings.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by the EFCC to prosecute high-profile corruption cases in Nigeria. The former minister's disappearance has raised questions about the effectiveness of bail conditions and the monitoring of accused persons.
