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By: Manoah Kikekon
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken decisive action by arresting Alhaji Sirajo Mohammed Jaja, the Accountant General of Bauchi State, in connection with an alleged ₦70 billion fraud case.
Jaja was detained in Abuja on Wednesday, alongside Aliyu Abubakar of Jasfad Resources Enterprise, an unlicensed Bureau de Change (BDC) operator, and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a Point of Sale (PoS) operator.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the arrests in a statement on Wednesday, revealing that the operation is part of a broader investigation into suspected money laundering, diversion of public funds, and misappropriation of state resources.
The statement further disclosed that Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, is also under investigation in relation to the alleged financial misconduct.
According to the EFCC, "Jaja was arrested in Abuja on Wednesday, March 17, 2025, alongside Aliyu Abubakar of Jasfad Resources Enterprise, an unlicensed bureau de change operator, and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a Point of Sale (PoS) operator. They were apprehended in connection with ongoing investigations into money laundering, diversion of public funds, and misappropriation amounting to N70 billion. The Commission is also probing the Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, regarding the matter."
Preliminary investigations revealed that a staggering N59 billion was withdrawn in cash through various bank accounts opened and managed by the Accountant General on behalf of the state government. The funds were allegedly transferred to Abubakar and Sambo, who then distributed cash payments to party agents and associates of the governor.
The statement also noted that Abubakar, the BDC operator, had previously jumped bail but has now been rearrested by the EFCC.
This high-profile case underscores the EFCC's commitment to tackling corruption and ensuring accountability in public office. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on Bauchi State, with many awaiting further developments in this unfolding financial scandal.