A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years imprisonment over the diversion of N33.8 billion earmarked for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said the former minister diverted the funds through ministry officials, private companies and Bureau de Change operators.

Mamman, who recently obtained the APC governorship nomination forms in Taraba State, is also facing another criminal case before the FCT High Court in Maitama over the alleged diversion of an additional N31 billion linked to the Mambilla Power Project.

Delivering judgment on Wednesday, Justice James Omotosho sentenced the former minister on multiple counts, ordering that the prison terms run consecutively, bringing the total sentence to 75 years.

The court noted that Mamman, who was absent during the last sitting, is currently on the run. Justice Omotosho ruled that the jail term would commence from the date of his arrest and directed all security agencies, including Interpol, to apprehend him wherever he is found.

The judge also ordered the forfeiture of all recovered funds and properties linked to the convict to the Federal Government.

In addition, the court directed Mamman to refund the outstanding N22 billion connected to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.