Ex-Minister Sale Mamman Seeks APC Governorship Ticket Amid N33.8bn Mammbila Power Project Trial

A former Minister of Power, Engr. Sale Mamman, who is currently standing trial over an alleged N33.8 billion fraud, has begun moves to contest the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Taraba State ahead of the 2027 elections.

 

Mamman has opened a campaign office in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, where he has been receiving various political and community support groups. Campaign billboards bearing his image and slogans have also begun to appear across parts of the town, signaling the start of early grassroots mobilization.

 

On Friday, the APC Local Government Executives paid a courtesy visit to Mamman at his campaign office in Jalingo. According to a statement issued by his media team, the party officials offered prayers and expressed support for his governorship aspiration. The visit was said to have provided an opportunity to discuss party-related issues and future collaboration.

 

"By the grace of Allah, the journey will be successful," the statement quoted the visitors as saying, while appreciating what they described as growing unity within the party.

 

In a related development, Mamman disclosed that he also received members of the Jalingo Elders Forum, who visited him to offer prayers and pledge support for his political ambition. He said the elders resolved to dedicate their time, effort and available resources to support his aspiration, a gesture he described as an honour.

 

"I am grateful for their prayers and encouragement, and I remain committed to the betterment and development of all our people," Mamman said in a statement dated January 17, 2026.

 

Mamman served as Nigeria's Minister of Power from August 2019 until September 2021, when he was removed from office by then President Muhammadu Buhari unceremoniously.

 

The presidency had said the decision followed a "critical self-review" of the minister's performance, with his dismissal coming exactly two years after his appointment.

 

The former minister is currently facing a 12-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), bordering on conspiracy and money laundering in connection with the MambillaHydropower Project. The anti-graft agency has alleged that Mamman conspired to divert funds from the Mambilla-Zungeru Special Project Account domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria to private accounts.

 

Mamman has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His legal team has maintained that he is not linked to the companies allegedly involved in the transactions.

 

Despite the ongoing court case, Mamman's political activities appear to be warming up to challenge incumbent Governor Agbu Kefas for the ticket of the APC.