The arraignment of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, was delayed on Thursday after he collapsed outside the Federal High Court in Abuja. Mamman, who served under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, was scheduled to enter his plea that morning but collapsed before the case was called.
According to reports, Mamman’s counsel, Femi Ate, SAN, informed Justice James Omotosho about the incident when the case was called. Mamman entered the courtroom with part of his clothes wet, prompting Justice Omotosho to inquire if it was raining outside. Mamman responded from the dock, explaining that water had been poured on him.
The EFCC’s lawyer, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN, confirmed the incident, mentioning that he had discussed Mamman’s ill-health with Ate outside the courtroom. Ate elaborated that Mamman collapsed upon arrival at the court premises and was resuscitated and treated by the court’s medical personnel. He added that Mamman had been served with the charge after his resuscitation.
Ate requested an adjournment to Monday, hoping Mamman would recover by then, but Justice Omotosho noted the court’s busy schedule and suggested a date in late September. Ate then withdrew his request for an adjournment. Olumide-Fusika mentioned filing an amended charge that morning due to a mistake in the defendant’s name and sought to have the fresh charge read to Mamman. However, the judge disagreed.
When asked by the judge if he was fit to take his plea, Mamman explained that his collapse was due to taking medication on an empty stomach, which caused a drop in his blood pressure. He assured the court that he was fit to proceed. The judge acknowledged that such incidents could happen to anyone and stepped down the arraignment until 1 pm that day.
Mamman also pointed out an error in the name on the charge served by the EFCC, which he had discussed with his lawyer. Justice Omotosho acknowledged the complaint and decided to delay the arraignment until later in the day.