In a startling revelation during the ongoing trial of former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman, a bureau de change (BDC) operator, Abdullahi Suleman, has detailed how over ₦22 billion was funneled through his accounts in a suspected money-laundering operation. The case, prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has captivated national attention.
Mamman is facing a 12-count charge of conspiracy and laundering ₦33.8 billion. The trial resumed on January 22, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice James Omotosho.
Abdullahi Suleman, appearing as the EFCC’s eighth witness, revealed his involvement in the alleged diversion of public funds.
“In 2019, Alhaji Maina Goje approached me and requested my account details to facilitate transactions. I was instructed to convert the funds to dollars or transfer them to other accounts,” Suleman testified.
He further explained that these transactions, which spanned from 2019 to 2024, were often coordinated through an intermediary referred to as “Yaro Minister,” allegedly acting on behalf of Mamman, and another associate, Mustapha Muhammed, linked to the Ministry of Housing.
The EFCC presented bank statements, labeled Exhibit X, which detailed the flow of massive sums through Suleman’s companies: Strong Field International Projects Limited, Mintedge Nigeria Limited, and Prymint Investment Limited. Notable transactions included:
- ₦285.9 million on May 24, 2021
- ₦278.2 million on May 26, 2021
- ₦320 million on January 1, 2021
- ₦184 million on June 18, 2021
- ₦178.3 million on July 14, 2021
- ₦75.4 million on August 5, 2021
Suleman admitted to handling and processing these payments under the direction of Goje and his associates.
The testimony has added a critical layer to the EFCC’s case, painting a detailed picture of the alleged financial misconduct linked to Mamman. The sheer scale of the transactions has drawn widespread condemnation, highlighting systemic corruption that continues to undermine Nigeria’s public institutions.
The EFCC is pressing forward with its investigation, determined to unravel the full extent of the alleged conspiracy. With the trial ongoing, Nigerians await the court’s decision, hoping it will set a precedent for accountability in public service.
The case represents a pivotal moment in the country’s fight against corruption. Will justice prevail? The nation watches closely as the trial continues.
