The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has hailed the conviction and sentencing of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, describing the judgment as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight and a strong warning against abuse of public office.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its national coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko the civil rights advocacy group commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for what it called a painstaking, courageous and professionally executed prosecution that culminated in the landmark 75-year prison sentence handed down by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
HURIWA stated that the conviction over the alleged diversion of ₦33.8 billion linked to the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects reinforces growing public confidence that high-profile corruption cases can still be successfully prosecuted within Nigeria’s judicial system.
The organisation particularly praised Justice James Omotosho for demonstrating uncommon courage, judicial independence and firmness in handling a politically sensitive corruption case involving a former cabinet member.
According to HURIWA, the judgment sends a powerful signal that the era of impunity for politically exposed persons must come to an end, especially in sectors critical to Nigeria’s economic growth and infrastructure development.
The group noted that the decision of the court to order the forfeiture of recovered assets and the refund of outstanding funds traced to the projects reflects a commendable commitment to accountability and restitution.
HURIWA further applauded the EFCC for sustaining the prosecution despite legal hurdles and institutional pressure often associated with high-profile corruption cases, noting that the commission’s presentation of multiple witnesses and documentary evidence demonstrated seriousness and professionalism.
The rights group maintained that corruption within strategic sectors such as power continues to sabotage national development, worsen poverty and deny millions of Nigerians access to essential services and economic opportunities.
It therefore urged anti-corruption agencies, the judiciary and relevant institutions to sustain the momentum by ensuring that all corruption cases are pursued diligently without fear, favour or political interference.
HURIWA also called on public office holders to view the judgment as a reminder that public service is a sacred trust that must be exercised with transparency, discipline and accountability.
The organisation stressed that Nigeria’s democratic stability and economic future depend heavily on the ability of institutions such as the EFCC and the judiciary to remain independent and effective in confronting grand corruption.
HURIWA Applauds EFCC, Justice Omotosho Over Historic Saleh Mamman Conviction
