How over N22bn was diverted from ministry of power under Saleh Mamman, BDC operator tells court

Abdullahi Suleman, a bureau de change operator, has provided detailed testimony on how over ₦22 billion was allegedly siphoned from the federal ministry of power during Saleh Mamman’s tenure as minister.

In July 2024, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged Mamman with a 12-count indictment, including conspiracy and money laundering. The charges involve the alleged diversion of ₦33.8 billion allocated for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects. The former minister pleaded not guilty.

During the court session on Wednesday, Suleman, testifying as the eighth prosecution witness, revealed that funds were funneled through 12 of his business accounts without any corresponding services or projects executed.

The EFCC alleges that the funds were unlawfully converted in collaboration with ministry officials and private companies.

The witness listed the companies involved as Prymint Investment Limited, Strong Field International Projects Limited, Mintedge Nigeria Limited, First Class Construction and Project, Silverline Ocean Ventures, Golden Bond Nigeria Limited, and Sipikin Global Enterprise.

Others include Spinhiills Biz International Limited, Fullest Utility Concepts Limited, Platinum Touch Enterprises, Breathable Investment Limited, and Gurupche Business Enterprises, a company owned by his brother.

“From my rough calculations, the amount I have received through the transactions will be more than N22 billion,” he said.

Suleman added that he and one Maina Goje were involved in the transactions, stating, “We have been working together since 2019 till 2024.”

The witness also testified that he exchanged naira for dollars at Goje’s instruction and either handed over or transferred the funds as directed.

The court also reviewed the exhibit X series, which contained bank statements from Suleman’s companies.

(TheCable)