Alleged Money Laundering: Court grants Ex-Minister of Power ₦10billion bail

Saleh Mamman, former minister of power, has been granted bail in the amount of ₦10 billion by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court Abuja, with two sureties.

Justice Omotosho ruled on the defendant’s bail motion, requiring sureties to hold properties in Abuja worth at least ₦750 million.

The court also ruled that sureties must provide certified land records to the court along with a three-year tax levy.

The court also ordered that the defendants provide bank statements and international passports to the court.

In the alternative, the court ruled that the defendant can offer a bank guarantee for the stated sum, and that no surety is required.

The court subsequently adjourned the case to September 25, 2024, for the commencement of the trial.

The development follows Justice Omotosho’s judgement on Thursday to confine Mamman in Abuja’s Kuje prison pending the outcome of his bail plea.

Justice Omotosho delivered the decision after Mamman was arraigned on a 12-count accusation of money laundering brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

In the amended allegation, the ex-minister is accused of laundering over N33 billion and acquiring properties through proxies.

He pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to him.