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N33.8bn fraud: EFCC begins trial of ex-power minister Saleh Mamman
N33.8bn fraud: EFCC begins trial of ex-power minister Saleh Mamman
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced the trial of the former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, over an alleged N33.8 billion fraud.
The trial, which began on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, was marked by the testimony of the first prosecution witness, Abubakar Kweido, an EFCC operative.
Mamman, who served as Minister of Power between 2019 and 2021, was arraigned on July 11, 2024, on a 12-count charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering involving N33,804,830,503.73. The funds were reportedly diverted from the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power plant projects, financed by a loan from China’s Exim Bank.
During the trial at the Federal High Court, Abuja, Kweido narrated how investigations revealed that multiple monetary transfers were made from the project accounts into unauthorized entities. “We uncovered that funds meant for the power projects were diverted through various entities using bureau de change operators, both in Naira and foreign currencies,” Kweido said.
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Kweido explained that the investigation, which spanned from 2019 to 2023, showed that Mamman had authorized payments to contractors and companies, including Tractebel and De-Crown Projects Ltd, and Sino Hydro Groups. However, the funds were funneled into 13 unauthorized companies, including Prymint Investment Ltd, Gurupche Business Enterprise, and Silverline Ventures.
“We analyzed the responses and found that over N33.8 billion from the project account was sent to companies not authorized for the project,” Kweido told the court, noting that many of these companies had no known contracts with the Ministry of Power.
The witness further revealed that individuals linked to these companies, including Maina Goje, Abdulahi Suleiman, and Abdulahi Garba, confessed they were bureau de change operators and had no formal contracts with the Federal Ministry of Power. The operators disclosed that the funds were disbursed based on the instructions of Mustapha Abubakar Dida, the project accountant.
Kweido also testified that Mrs. Bawo Idris, a personal assistant to Mamman, admitted to receiving instructions from the former minister to disburse funds from his First Bank and GTBank accounts. Some of the funds were reportedly used for personal purposes, including renting an apartment for Mamman.
The trial was adjourned to October 9, 2024, for continuation.
The EFCC continues its investigation into the alleged fraud, which threatens to further expose the corruption surrounding Nigeria’s critical power projects.
Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, confirmed the adjournment in a statement issued on Thursday.
N33.8bn fraud: EFCC begins trial of ex-power minister Saleh Mamman
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Aisha Achimugu Denies Sanwo-Olu Link, Speaks on EFCC Case, $13m Forfeiture Battle
Aisha Achimugu Denies Sanwo-Olu Link, Speaks on EFCC Case, $13m Forfeiture Battle
Businesswoman and founder of Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd, Aisha Achimugu, has strongly denied claims that her wealth is linked to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, insisting she is a self-made entrepreneur who built her business empire from 2001.
She made the clarification during an interview with Channels Television on Monday, amid ongoing public scrutiny of her finances and a legal battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Achimugu said her entrepreneurial journey began long before she became widely known, stressing that her success was achieved through years of private sector work and legitimate business activities.
“I started my business in 2001. My background is a decent family. My late husband was the MD of PPMCC. I met him in the course of the work. I actually met him doing business in NNPC,” she said.
When asked directly whether her wealth was linked to Governor Sanwo-Olu or any influential associates, she firmly denied the allegation, stating: “Not at all.”
Public Attention After Grenada Birthday Celebration
Achimugu first came under intense public attention in January 2024 after hosting a lavish seven-day 50th birthday celebration in Grenada.
The event attracted prominent Nigerian entertainers, business leaders, and political figures, including Governor Sanwo-Olu, sparking widespread speculation about the source of her wealth.
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She, however, maintained that her connections to high-profile individuals are a result of her professional standing and not political influence or financial dependence.
EFCC Arrest and $13m Forfeiture Order
In April 2025, the EFCC declared Achimugu wanted over allegations of money laundering before she was later arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
By March 2026, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted a final forfeiture order of $13 million allegedly linked to her company, a ruling she is currently appealing.
The court, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, held that the EFCC had proven the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity.
Her company has since filed an appeal, with the case still ongoing in court.
“I’m Not a Bank” — Achimugu Rejects Claims
Reacting to the forfeiture allegations, Achimugu declined to go into full detail due to the ongoing litigation but strongly denied possessing such funds.
“My house was raided. Only $50,000 and N13 million belonging to my mom was found in my house and my personal belongings,” she said.
“I don’t know where Nigeria got the impression that I have $13 million in my house. I’m not a bank. I won’t keep $13 million in my house.”
Oil Block and Business Operations
On claims surrounding her company’s oil block, Achimugu said it was acquired through a transparent and competitive bidding process in the oil and gas sector.
She insisted that her business operations are legitimate and based on structured investments rather than political connections or influence.
“My Wealth Is Not Political” — Achimugu
Addressing her relationships with political figures, Achimugu said her access to influential individuals has often been misunderstood.
“I have always had access to power and governance. I’m a known Nigerian. I have friends, and I have done well,” she said.
She added that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s presence at her birthday event was incidental, noting that he was among several invited guests.
“I’m an entrepreneur and business owner. Having to know those who will increase my portfolio is very important to me. It is not about Governor Sanwo-Olu at all,” she added.
Aisha Achimugu Denies Sanwo-Olu Link, Speaks on EFCC Case, $13m Forfeiture Battle
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10 Killed as Gunmen Ambush Military-Escorted Convoy in Ghana, 21 Suspects Arrested
10 Killed as Gunmen Ambush Military-Escorted Convoy in Ghana, 21 Suspects Arrested
Armed attackers have ambushed a military-escorted civilian convoy in northern Ghana, leaving at least 10 people dead and triggering a major security operation that has led to the arrest of 21 suspects, according to the Ghana Armed Forces.
The incident occurred on the morning of April 27, 2026, at Binduri in the Upper East Region, when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a convoy carrying about 140 civilians travelling from Bawku to Bolgatanga under military protection.
The attack was described by security officials as a coordinated assault in a region already affected by long-standing insecurity and recurring communal tensions.
The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that troops escorting the convoy immediately returned fire and successfully repelled the attackers during the exchange.
In the confrontation, seven of the attackers were killed, while three escorted civilians also lost their lives. One additional civilian sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical attention.
Security authorities said the total confirmed death toll from the incident stands at 10, combining both civilians and attackers involved in the ambush.
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Following the attack, soldiers launched a pursuit operation targeting fleeing suspects in the area. During the operation, one suspect was tracked to a mosque, where security personnel recovered a G3 automatic rifle, two loaded magazines, and 176 rounds of ammunition.
An initial statement from the Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that 10 suspects were arrested shortly after the attack and were assisting with investigations. However, a later update indicated that the number of arrested suspects had risen to 21, all currently in police custody.
Security agencies have since intensified operations in surrounding communities, with joint military and police teams conducting sweeps to locate additional suspects believed to be involved in the ambush.
Authorities have urged residents in the area to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing security operations as investigations continue.
The attack is linked to the long-running Bawku conflict, which has seen repeated outbreaks of violence tied largely to chieftaincy disputes between the Kusasi and Mamprusi groups.
The region has experienced cycles of violence over the years, resulting in curfews, heavy military deployments, and increased protection for civilian movement along key routes.
Due to the persistent insecurity, civilians travelling along the Bawku–Bolgatanga corridor are often required to move under military escort to reduce the risk of attacks.
The latest ambush underscores continuing security challenges in the region despite sustained military presence and ongoing peace efforts. Authorities say investigations are still ongoing, with further updates expected.
10 Killed as Gunmen Ambush Military-Escorted Convoy in Ghana, 21 Suspects Arrested
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Police Reject ₦100m Bribe, Arrest Two Over Stolen Railway Materials in Nasarawa
Police Reject ₦100m Bribe, Arrest Two Over Stolen Railway Materials in Nasarawa
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have rejected a ₦100 million bribe and intercepted about 60 tonnes of vandalised railway materials in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, during a major intelligence-led operation against infrastructure vandalism.
The operation was carried out by the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS) following credible intelligence, which led to the arrest of two suspects on April 9, 2026.
The suspects, identified as Chisom Goodnews (32) and Ahmed Adamu (22), were arrested while allegedly transporting stolen railway materials concealed inside a trailer truck.
Police said the intercepted items included railway tracks and sleepers, which were hidden under sacks of groundnut shells in an attempt to evade detection during transportation.
According to preliminary investigations, the truck was conveying the stolen materials from Bauchi State to Ilorin, suggesting an organised network involved in the movement of vandalised railway infrastructure across states.
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The probe also revealed that the driver of the trailer was allegedly paid ₦2.5 million to transport the stolen railway components, pointing to a structured criminal arrangement behind the operation.
Security sources further stated that investigations are ongoing to uncover a wider syndicate believed to be responsible for the theft and distribution of railway materials for illegal resale.
During the interception, the suspects reportedly attempted to offer a ₦100 million bribe to the operatives in order to secure their release and allow the truck to pass.
However, the officers rejected the offer and proceeded with the arrest and seizure of both the suspects and the loaded truck.
The Nigeria Police Force said the rejection of the bribe demonstrates the professionalism and integrity of the operatives involved in the operation.
The Force also confirmed that the trailer truck used in transporting the stolen materials has been recovered, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the criminal network.
Investigators believe the case is part of a broader pattern of organised vandalism targeting critical national infrastructure, particularly railway assets that are often stolen and sold as scrap metal.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended the officers for their conduct, describing their actions as a reflection of discipline, professionalism, and commitment to national security.
The suspects are expected to be prosecuted upon completion of ongoing investigations.
Police Reject ₦100m Bribe, Arrest Two Over Stolen Railway Materials in Nasarawa
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