A personal assistant to former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman, Mifbahu Idris, and key witnesses testified today in a Federal High Court, revealing how they helped launder millions on Mamman’s behalf.
The ongoing trial, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, centers around a money laundering scheme involving an alleged N33.8 billion.
Idris, who is also Mamman’s nephew, disclosed that between 2019 and 2021, he received a total of N777.5 million in cash and transfers from bureau de change operators Maina Goje and Abdulahi Suleiman. “I would receive the money, sometimes in naira, sometimes in dollars, and Mamman gave specific instructions on how to spend it,” Idris testified.
He said he used the funds to pay for household expenses, buy food, and transfer money to Mamman’s associates, all as directed by the former minister.
Idris also confirmed that he received large sums directly into his bank account, including two N10 million transfers in 2021 and 2023, which were also spent under Mamman’s direction. “I followed his instructions for all of it,” he explained. Additionally, he returned N190 million to the EFCC, funds allegedly handed to him by Mamman for the laundering operation.
In related testimony, Goje, a bureau de change operator, confirmed he frequently delivered large sums of cash to Mamman’s residence in Maitama, Abuja. “I would bring money, sometimes N20 million or N30 million in cash, or even $100,000,” Goje said, noting that Idris would often collect the funds.
Mamman faces a 12-count charge related to the conspiracy to launder the alleged N33.8 billion. The trial is scheduled to continue in March 2025.
