In a significant move against financial misconduct, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken Alhaji Sirajo Mohammed Jaja, the Accountant General of Bauchi State, into custody over allegations of a ₦70 billion fraud. The arrest, which took place in Abuja on Wednesday, March 17, 2025, has drawn widespread attention due to its scale and the individuals involved.
Accompanying Jaja in the arrest were Aliyu Abubakar, the owner of Jasfad Resources Enterprise—a Bureau de Change (BDC) operator reportedly operating without a license—and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a Point of Sale (PoS) operator. The EFCC, through its spokesperson Dele Oyewale, confirmed that the trio is under investigation for alleged money laundering, diversion of public funds, and misuse of state resources.
Investigators have reportedly uncovered financial transactions involving large cash withdrawals amounting to ₦59 billion from multiple accounts linked to the Accountant General’s office. According to the EFCC, these funds were funneled through Abubakar and Sambo, who allegedly distributed them to political associates and party operatives connected to the Bauchi State government.
Further intensifying the investigation, the EFCC has disclosed that Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State is also under scrutiny in relation to the case. Legal analysts note that while a sitting governor enjoys constitutional immunity from prosecution, law enforcement agencies retain the authority to investigate financial activities linked to public officeholders.
The development comes shortly after Governor Mohammed publicly expressed support for a presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 elections. While some have speculated about possible political motivations behind the timing of the arrests, the EFCC has maintained that its actions are solely driven by the ongoing investigation.
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This case underscores the growing emphasis on financial accountability within Nigeria’s governance system. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to provide further updates, ensuring due process is followed while reinforcing efforts to curb corruption in public service.
