A rights group in Taraba State, Justice for All, is questioning the fairness in the trial of former Minister of Power, Sale Mamman, asserting that the trial is aimed at tarnishing Mamman’s reputation, rather than serving justice.
Mamman is facing a 12-count charge before a Federal High Court in Abuja, with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accusing him of laundering over N33 billion during his tenure as minister of power from 2019 to 2021.
However, Justice for All, led by its State Coordinator, Umaru Sani, and Secretary, Gideon Ibrahim, argue that contradictions in witness testimonies in the ongoing trial have cast doubts on the allegations.
The group cited a key prosecution witness who, under cross-examination, admitted to collecting and transferring money from the ministry of power, but only learned from the EFCC that the funds were allegedly linked to Mamman.
The group further highlighted that the last sum collected by the witness was handed over to the EFCC, after Mamman had already left office.
“Another prosecution witness, reportedly Mamman’s former personal assistant, testified that he stopped working for the ex-minister in September 2021.
“Yet, he admitted to collecting money from bureau de change operators between 2019 and 2023, some of which occurred after Mamman had left office.
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“Adding to the controversy, a prosecution witness during Wednesday’s hearing, reportedly denied ever meeting or conducting transactions with Mamman, raising further doubts about the case,” the group said.
It vowed to continue advocating for fairness in the ongoing trial of the ex-minister, and urged the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure the real culprits behind the fraud are identified.
The group stated that inconsistencies in witness statements, suggest Mamman may be innocent.
As the trial progresses, the group also called on the judiciary to uphold fairness, and resist any external pressures that could mar the integrity of the trial.
