Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
Proceedings in the alleged N33.8 billion fraud trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, were stalled on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, after the defence failed to file its final written address.
The trial, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, could not proceed as scheduled for the adoption of final written arguments.
Mamman is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a 12-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering amounting to over N33.8 billion.
At the hearing, defence counsel, Femi Atteh (SAN), informed the court that although the defence had received the prosecution’s final written address, it had yet to file its own. He drew attention to a motion filed on April 1, 2026, seeking an extension of time to do so.
The request was not opposed by prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), prompting the court to grant the extension.
Justice Omotosho subsequently adjourned the matter to April 23, 2026, for the adoption of final written addresses.
The case is part of ongoing efforts by the EFCC to prosecute high-profile corruption cases and reinforce accountability in public office