Nigerian authorities have successfully apprehended former Power Minister Saleh Mamman, who had been evading capture since receiving a 75-year prison sentence earlier this month. The arrest took place in Kaduna state following an extensive intelligence-led operation conducted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Mamman, who served as the nation’s power minister from 2019 to 2021, was convicted on 12 counts of corruption involving the misappropriation of funds designated for two major hydroelectric power projects. During the trial, evidence presented to the court demonstrated that the former official utilized proxy companies and associates to siphon approximately 22 billion naira—equivalent to roughly $14 million—meant for critical infrastructure development. The court ultimately sentenced him in absentia after he failed to appear for the proceedings.

The arrest represents a significant development in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to prosecute high-level corruption, a challenge that has historically seen few convictions of senior officials. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede emphasized that ensuring the former minister serves his full sentence is a priority for the agency, citing the severity of the breach of public trust. Beyond the current conviction, Mamman remains the subject of a separate ongoing legal battle involving allegations of fraud totaling 31 billion naira.

This case has drawn intense public scrutiny, particularly as Nigeria continues to grapple with chronic electricity shortages. Despite the country’s status as a major energy producer, citizens frequently endure power outages, forcing many to rely on expensive fuel generators. The conviction of a former minister tasked with improving the nation’s power supply has reignited national discourse regarding the impact of systemic corruption on essential public services.