The Federal High Court in Abuja has intensified its recovery efforts against the former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, ordering the forfeiture of five high-value properties linked to his corruption conviction.
Presiding Judge James Omotosho issued the directive on Thursday, July 2, 2026, marking a significant development in the legal proceedings against the former minister. Mamman, who is currently serving a 75-year prison sentence following his conviction on May 7, 2026, on a 12-count charge of corruption and money laundering totaling N33.8 billion, continues to face severe financial repercussions for his actions while in office.
Asset Breakdown and Legal Status
The court’s ruling distinguishes between assets recovered permanently and those currently under interim seizure.
- Permanent Forfeiture: The court ruled that the Walijam Apartments, situated at 43 Plot 435, Lobito Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja, is to be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government. The EFCC successfully demonstrated that this property was acquired directly through the proceeds of unlawful activities.
- Interim Forfeiture: Four other properties have been placed under interim forfeiture, pending further legal processes:
- Bloom Luxury Suites Nigeria Limited: Located at 5 Amana Crescent, New Estate, Unguwan Rimi, Kaduna State.
- Residential Mansion: Located at 11 Misratah Street, Wuse 2, Abuja.
- Residential Property: Located at 13 Misratah Street, Wuse 2, Abuja.
- A.U.A Plaza: Located on Plot 734 Kade Street, Wuse 2, Abuja.
Next Steps for Interested Parties
Justice Omotosho has instructed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to publish the interim forfeiture order in a national newspaper within seven days. This notice serves as a window for any interested parties to approach the court and provide a justification as to why these four properties should not also be permanently surrendered to the federal government.
Context of the Prosecution
The court’s decision follows a landmark trial where the EFCC meticulously traced N33.8 billion in laundered funds. Beyond the forfeiture of the aforementioned real estate, Justice Omotosho previously ordered Mamman to pay a full refund of the N22 billion that investigators successfully tracked to his personal accounts.
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This latest ruling reinforces the judiciary’s stance on asset recovery, ensuring that the financial gains derived from public office corruption are effectively clawed back into the national treasury.
