HURIWA Backs EFCC, Court Over Ex-Power Minister’s 75-Year Jail Term

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has praised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the judiciary over the conviction of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, in the N33.8 billion fraud case linked to power projects.

Mamman was sentenced to 75 years imprisonment after being found guilty of corruption-related offences tied to the handling of funds meant for the nation’s power sector.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA described the judgment as a landmark decision capable of strengthening accountability and restoring confidence in the justice system.

The group said the ruling marked a significant moment in Nigeria’s anti-corruption campaign, especially in critical sectors that have suffered years of financial mismanagement and abuse of public funds.

HURIWA commended the EFCC for what it called persistence and professionalism during the investigation and prosecution of the case.

According to the association, the anti-graft agency demonstrated diligence by presenting 17 witnesses and 43 documentary exhibits throughout the trial.

The organisation said the outcome of the case sends a strong warning to public office holders against treating government positions as opportunities for personal enrichment.

“The conviction sends a strong message that public office must never be treated as an avenue for personal enrichment, but rather as a trust that must be discharged with integrity and accountability,” the statement read.

HURIWA also applauded Justice James Omotosho for what it described as courage and independence in handling a high-profile and politically sensitive matter.

The group noted that the lengthy prison sentence and forfeiture of recovered assets reflect growing determination within the judiciary to ensure that corruption cases are not swept aside because of the status of those involved.

It further stated that the judgment would reassure Nigerians who have repeatedly expressed concerns over selective justice and weak punishment for influential public officials accused of corruption.

The association urged anti-corruption agencies and the courts to sustain the momentum in the fight against corruption, stressing that consistency remains vital to achieving lasting reforms in public service.

HURIWA added that Nigeria’s development depends largely on the ability of institutions such as the EFCC and the judiciary to function independently and without political interference.

The organisation reaffirmed its support for policies and actions aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability and the rule of law across government institutions.