The trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, continued at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, 22 January 2025, with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presenting its eighth witness, Abdullahi Suleman, a bureau de change operator.
According to Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Suleman narrated how more than N22 billion was allegedly funnelled from the Federal Ministry of Power into his business accounts during Saleh Mamman’s tenure as minister. The naira equivalent was subsequently converted to US dollars.
Led in evidence by prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, Suleman disclosed that funds were channelled through 12 of his companies without any services, contracts, or projects being executed.
The companies included Prymint Investment Limited, Strong Field International Projects Limited, Mintedge Nigeria Limited, First Class Construction and Project, and others.
“I know Alhaji Maina Goje; we are in the same business,” Suleman said.
“In 2019, Maina approached me about a transaction and requested account numbers. I provided accounts like Fullest Utility Concepts Limited, and he would send money, which I converted to dollars. He also directed me to transfer funds to other accounts. From my rough calculations, I received more than N22 billion through these transactions.” Suleman continued.
He added that when Goje was unavailable, he sent an associate known as “Yaro Minister” for instructions on handling funds. Suleman also identified another key figure, Mustapha Muhammed, introduced to him by Goje.
“Goje told me Muhammed is his oga, and I later learnt he worked with the Federal Ministry of Housing. Muhammed would instruct me to provide the required amount in dollars whenever Goje was unreachable,” Suleman said.
The prosecution presented bank statements from Suleman’s companies, including Strong Field International Projects Limited and Prymint Investment Limited, which documented significant transactions.
Notable inflows included N285,983,285 on 24 May 2021, N320 million on 1 January 2021, and N178,300,285 on 14 July 2021. Suleman admitted receiving these funds.
Earlier, an FCMB compliance officer tendered additional bank statements and attachments, detailing transactions linked to Prymint Investments Limited, Platinum Touch Enterprises, and other companies. The evidence was admitted as Exhibit XTUB.
Saleh Mamman is facing a 12-count charge of conspiracy and money laundering totalling N33.8 billion.
Justice James Omotosho adjourned the matter to 23 January 2025 for the continuation of the hearing.
