Bauchi’s accountant general arrested over alleged ₦70b fraud

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested Sirajo Jaja, the Accountant General of Bauchi State, over alleged fraud involving ₦70 billion.

Jaja was apprehended in Abuja on Wednesday, alongside Aliyu Abubakar, an unlicensed bureau de change (BDC) operator from Jasfad Resources Enterprise, and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a Point of Sale (PoS) operator.

The EFCC revealed that the arrests are connected to an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering, diversion of public funds, and misappropriation of state resources. The anti-graft agency is also investigating Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed concerning the matter.

EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale confirmed the arrest, stating:

“The investigation has revealed that cash withdrawals amounting to N59 billion were made through various bank accounts operated by the Accountant General on behalf of the state government. The funds were allegedly moved to Aliyu Abubakar and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, who subsequently made cash payments to party agents and associates of the governor.”

He further disclosed that Abubakar, who had previously jumped bail, had been rearrested.

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“We are committed to tracing and recovering the diverted funds, and those found culpable will face the full weight of the law,” Oyewale added.

The EFCC stated that investigations are ongoing and that the suspects remain in custody for further questioning.