The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Sirajo Jaja, the Accountant General of Bauchi State, for alleged N70 billion fraud. The arrest occurred in Abuja on Wednesday, March 17, 2025. Alongside Jaja, Aliyu Abubakar, an unlicensed Bureau De Change operator from Jasfad Resources Enterprise, and Sunusi Sambo, a Point of Sale (POS) operator, were also apprehended.
Investigation into Money Laundering and Misappropriation
The arrests are part of a larger investigation into money laundering, misappropriation, and diversion of public funds. According to EFCC sources, Jaja used various bank accounts to withdraw N59 billion for the state government. The funds were then transferred to Abubakar and Sambo, who allegedly made cash payments to party agents and associates of Governor Bala Mohammed.
Governor Under Investigation Amid Allegations
The EFCC is also investigating Governor Bala Mohammed’s possible involvement in the fraud. Investigators are looking into his potential role in the financial misconduct and the distribution of the stolen funds. Governor Mohammed has not yet been formally charged but remains under scrutiny.
Confirmation and Further Developments
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the arrests but declined to provide more details. He stated that further information would be shared as the investigation progresses.
Political Context and Recent Developments
Governor Bala Mohammed, a vocal critic of President Bola Tinubu, is the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party’s Governors’ Forum. Last week, he met with Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party. Together, they pledged to collaborate in efforts to unseat President Tinubu in the 2027 elections. The timing of these events has raised additional questions about the political context surrounding the investigation.
