EFCC Presents Evidence Of Fund Diversion In Ex-Minister Mamman’s N33.8B Trial

Speaking at the proceedings on Wednesday, Abubakar Kweido, the first prosecuting witness, testified before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja that funds from the Mambilla project’s account were allegedly diverted to purchase properties in Kado Estate and Wuse 2, Abuja.

Mamman faces a 12-count charge related to conspiracy to commit money laundering involving a staggering N33,804,830,503.73 (approximately Thirty-Three Billion, Eight Hundred and Four Million, Eight Hundred and Thirty Thousand, Five Hundred and Three Naira, Seventy-Three Kobo).

Kweido, an operative of the EFCC, detailed the commission’s investigative findings, revealing that several payments made to Mamman were linked to real estate acquisitions.

“The investigation indicated that funds released to the former minister were utilized for property purchases in Abuja,” Kweido stated.

He further noted that when presented with the findings, Mamman, through his legal counsel, denied any connection to the properties.

He attributed financial transactions to his former Personal Assistant, Maisbahu Idris.

Kweido mentioned that Idris was allegedly responsible for distributing funds received from the project accountant to ministry staff.

In the course of the investigation, EFCC operatives conducted a search of Mamman’s residence, where they reportedly seized foreign currencies in cash and documents linked to a company named Abangus Nig. Ltd.

This entity is suspected of facilitating the diversion of funds from the Mambilla project account.

Payment vouchers and cash recovery exhibit forms were submitted and accepted as evidence during the trial.

Justice Omotosho has adjourned the matter until October 23, 2024, for the continuation of the trial.

Also, EFCC aims to establish a clear link between Mamman and the alleged financial improprieties surrounding the Mambilla Hydro Power Project.