N33.8 Billion Fraud Scandal: BDC Operator Reveals N22 Billion Diversion from Power Ministry Under Ex-Minister Saleh Mamman

 N33.8 Billion Fraud Scandal: BDC Operator Reveals N22 Billion Diversion from Power Ministry Under Ex-Minister Saleh Mamman

In a startling revelation, Abdullahi Suleman, a bureau de change (BDC) operator, testified before the Federal High Court in Abuja, detailing how over ₦22 billion was funneled through his accounts from the Federal Ministry of Power during the tenure of former Minister Saleh Mamman.



The Alleged Money Laundering Scheme

Suleman disclosed that between 2019 and 2024, approximately ₦22 billion was transferred into 12 of his business accounts without any corresponding services or contracts executed.These accounts, associated with companies such as Prymint Investment Limited and Strong Field International Projects Limited, were allegedly used to convert naira into U.S. dollars, which were then handed over to intermediaries.

Key Figures and Transactions

The BDC operator identified Maina Goje as the facilitator of these transactions, stating, "We have been working together since 2019 till 2024."Suleman also mentioned Mustapha Muhammed, an official linked to the Federal Ministry of Housing, as an individual who provided directives for the dollar exchanges.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Former Minister Saleh Mamman is currently facing a 12-count charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering amounting to ₦33.8 billion, as filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).The prosecution, led by Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), presented Suleman as a key witness to substantiate the allegations.






Bank Records and Evidence

During the court proceedings, bank statements from Suleman's companies were examined, revealing significant transactions, including ₦285,983,285 on May 24, 2021, and ₦90,247,395 on January 12, 2022.These records were admitted as evidence, highlighting the substantial sums moved through Suleman's accounts.

Implications and Ongoing Investigations

This case underscores the pervasive issue of corruption within Nigeria's public sector, particularly concerning the misappropriation of funds intended for critical infrastructure development.The EFCC's ongoing investigation aims to unravel the full extent of the alleged fraud and hold accountable those implicated in the diversion of public funds.

The testimony of Abdullahi Suleman sheds light on a complex network of financial transactions allegedly orchestrated to siphon billions from the Federal Ministry of Power.As the legal proceedings continue, this case serves as a critical examination of accountability and transparency within Nigeria's governmental institutions.

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