The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Alhaji Sirajo Mohammed Jaja, the Accountant General of Bauchi State, over allegations of financial misconduct involving a staggering ₦70 billion.
Jaja was taken into custody in Abuja on Wednesday, March 17, 2025, alongside two other individuals: Aliyu Abubakar, the operator of Jasfad Resources Enterprise, an unlicensed Bureau de Change (BDC), and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a Point of Sale (PoS) operator.
According to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, their arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into suspected large-scale money laundering, diversion of public funds, and misappropriation of state resources. The anti-graft agency is also probing the involvement of Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, in the case.
Preliminary findings by investigators have reportedly uncovered significant financial irregularities. It was revealed that a staggering ₦59 billion was withdrawn in cash from various bank accounts operated by the Accountant General on behalf of the Bauchi State Government. The withdrawn funds were then funneled through Abubakar and Sambo, who allegedly distributed the money to political party agents and associates of Governor Bala Mohammed.
Furthermore, the EFCC disclosed that Abubakar, the BDC operator, had previously jumped bail but has now been rearrested as part of the ongoing probe.
The anti-corruption agency has vowed to continue its investigation to ensure accountability and transparency in the handling of public funds in Bauchi State.
