The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arraigned Sirajo Muhammad Jaja, the Accountant General of Bauchi State, alongside a Bureau de Change operator, Aliyu Abubakar, on allegations of diverting ₦1.4 billion in public funds. This high-profile case returned to the courtroom on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, as both defendants appeared before Justice O.A. Egwuatu at the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja.
This re-arraignment followed an amended five-count charge, filed by the EFCC, which centers on money laundering and the criminal misappropriation of public funds. Aliyu Abubakar, who operates under the business name Jasfad Resources Enterprise, joined Jaja in facing these renewed charges.
Notably, three other suspects—Abubakar Muhammed Hafiz, Ari Manga, and Muhammed Aminu Bose—remain at large. The EFCC continues its efforts to locate and apprehend them in connection with the case.
EFCC Details Massive Fund Diversion Scheme
According to the EFCC, between October 29 and December 31, 2024, the accused parties allegedly funneled ₦1,192,234,627 from the Bauchi State Government’s Sub-Treasury Account, which is domiciled at United Bank for Africa (UBA), into the Jasfad Resources Enterprise account, also held at UBA. The transaction, according to investigators, was disguised as a foreign exchange deal to conceal the true intent.
In addition, the anti-graft agency further alleged that from January 3 to March 14, 2025, the same strategy was employed to launder another ₦296,191,000. As with the previous transaction, the funds were moved from the government’s sub-treasury account to Jasfad Resources Enterprise’s UBA account.
These actions, according to the EFCC, clearly violate Section 18(2)(b) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. Furthermore, these offences are punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act.
Defendants Deny Allegations and Request Bail Continuation
In response to the charges, both defendants pleaded not guilty. Their respective legal representatives, Senior Advocates of Nigeria Gordy Uche (representing Jaja) and Chris Uche (representing Abubakar), petitioned the court to allow the accused persons to retain the bail conditions previously granted.
Moreover, the defense requested an adjournment to allow adequate time to study the revised charges and prepare their legal strategies accordingly.
EFCC’s lead counsel, Abba Muhammed, SAN, did not object to the bail continuation or the adjournment request. Consequently, Justice Egwuatu approved the defense counsel’s plea and maintained the existing bail conditions for both defendants.
Court Schedules Trial Date Amid Growing Public Interest
Following these procedural decisions, the court adjourned the matter to July 21, 2025, when the trial will formally commence. Legal observers and anti-corruption advocates continue to monitor the case, given its significant implications for public accountability and the management of state funds.
This case underscores the EFCC’s ongoing commitment to pursuing justice in instances of financial misconduct and reaffirms the importance of transparency in public service. As Nigeria intensifies efforts to combat corruption, the outcome of this trial may serve as a pivotal benchmark for similar cases in the future.
The re-arraignment also signals the EFCC’s strategic approach of refining its charges to strengthen its cases and ensure that no loophole allows alleged offenders to escape accountability.
Background: Widening Crackdown on State-Level Corruption
Over the past year, Nigeria has witnessed a surge in investigations into the financial dealings of public officials at the state level. The EFCC, empowered by federal legislation, has actively pursued several high-profile individuals suspected of misappropriating public funds.
In particular, the agency has intensified scrutiny on irregular foreign exchange transactions and public-private partnerships that potentially serve as vehicles for laundering state resources.
This renewed focus stems from mounting pressure to increase transparency in governance and ensure that public funds reach their intended destinations, especially in sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
Legal Ramifications and Broader Implications
If convicted, both Jaja and Abubakar face significant legal consequences under Nigeria’s anti-money laundering statutes. In addition to potential prison sentences, the EFCC may seek asset forfeiture or restitution orders aimed at recovering diverted funds.
Moreover, the outcome of this case may influence ongoing investigations in other states where similar practices have been suspected but remain unprosecuted due to a lack of conclusive evidence.
In conclusion, the EFCC’s pursuit of this case sends a strong message that public service abuse will be met with decisive legal action. As the trial progresses, all eyes will remain on the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the proceedings are expected to set a critical precedent in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
