The EFCC Arrests Bauchi State Accountant-General Over N70 Billion Fraud
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested Sirajo Mohammed Jaja, Bauchi State Accountant-General, for allegedly misappropriating N70 billion. The arrest was made in Abuja on Wednesday, March 19, and also involved Aliyu Abubakar of Jasfad Resources Enterprise, an unlicensed bureau de change operator, and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a point-of-sale (PoS) operator.
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According to sources within the EFCC, the trio is being investigated for money laundering, diversion of public funds, and misappropriation. Preliminary findings show that cash withdrawals totaling N59 billion were made through various bank accounts managed by the Accountant-General on behalf of the state government.
The funds were allegedly channeled to Abubakar and Sambo who then paid cash to political associates and agents of the state governor.
The EFCC is also investigating Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State on his involvement in the alleged fraud. The commission is poring over financial records and the roles played by each individual to have a full grasp of the alleged fraud.
This is not the first time high-ranking officials in Nigeria are under financial scrutiny. In December 2024, the EFCC arrested Joy Enwa, Delta State Accountant-General, over a N1.3 trillion fraud linked to former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration. Also in November 2024, Okowa was arrested by the EFCC for allegedly diverting funds from the 13 percent derivation allocation meant for oil-producing states.
These arrests are part of the EFCC’s efforts to fight corruption and financial mismanagement in government institutions. By holding public officials accountable, the commission wants to promote transparency and rebuild public trust in governance.
As the N70 billion fraud saga in Bauchi State unfolds, the Economic and Financial Crime Commission will dig deeper into the financial transactions and relationships of the accused. The outcome of this probe will have far-reaching implications for the state’s political and administrative landscape.
The EFCC has vowed to follow all leads and make those found guilty face the law while the public awaits further developments as they continue to investigate the financial fraud in Bauchi State.
