By Francis Wilfred
Justice Maryann Anineh of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Maitama, Abuja, has revoked the bail earlier granted to former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, and issued a bench warrant for his arrest following his absence in court during his ongoing criminal trial.
Mamman has reportedly remained out of circulation since he was convicted on May 7, 2026, by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on a 12-count charge bordering on money laundering involving ₦33.8 billion.
The former minister, alongside seven others, is also being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission before Justice Anineh on a nine-count charge bordering on conspiracy, obtaining by false pretence, and intent to defraud to the tune of ₦31 billion.
During proceedings, prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, informed the court that Mamman was absent and that no explanation had been provided either by the defendant or his legal team. He noted that no reason was also given for Mamman’s absence during his conviction before Justice Omotosho on May 7.
Responding, defence counsel, Femi Atteh, SAN, argued that it was the responsibility of the prosecution to produce the defendant in court following his conviction and the earlier bench warrant issued against him.
Oyedepo subsequently urged the court to continue with the trial in Mamman’s absence, citing Section 352(4) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.
In her ruling, Justice Anineh granted the prosecution’s requests, revoked Mamman’s bail, and issued a bench warrant compelling his appearance at the next adjourned date.
The court further ruled that the trial would continue in his absence in line with Section 352 of the ACJA 2015.
The matter was adjourned till May 14, 2026, for continuation of trial.
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