Ex-Minister Sale Mamman Launches Guber Campaign in Taraba Amid N33.8bn Fraud Trial
Former Minister of Power, Engr. Sale Mamman, currently standing trial over an alleged N33.8 billion fraud, has begun moves to secure the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Taraba State ahead of the 2027 elections.
Mamman has reportedly opened a campaign office in Jalingo, the state capital, where he is receiving party loyalists, political stakeholders, and community groups.
Billboards featuring his image and campaign slogans have also appeared across parts of Jalingo, signalling early mobilisation despite his ongoing prosecution.
On Friday, APC Local Government executives visited Mamman at his campaign office, offering prayers and pledging support for his governorship ambition.
Discussions on party affairs and future collaboration were also held. “By the grace of Allah, the journey will be successful,” the officials said, praising what they described as growing unity within the party.
Mamman further disclosed that members of the Jalingo Elders Forum visited him to show support, pledging their time, effort, and resources toward his campaign.
“I am grateful for their prayers and encouragement, and I remain committed to the betterment and development of all our people,” he said in a statement dated January 17, 2026.
Mamman served as Nigeria’s Minister of Power from August 2019 to September 2021, when he was removed by the late former President Muhammadu Buhari following a “critical self-review” of his performance.
He is currently facing a 12-count charge before a Federal High Court, filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), over alleged conspiracy and money laundering linked to the Mambilla Hydropower Project.
The EFCC claims Mamman diverted funds from the Mambilla–Zungeru Special Project Account at the Central Bank of Nigeria into private accounts.
Mamman has pleaded not guilty to all charges, with his legal team insisting he has no connection to the companies allegedly involved.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
