Bauchi State Accountant General Arrested by EFCC Over Alleged £59 Billion Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested the Accountant General of Bauchi State, Alhaji Sirajo Mohammed Jaja, over allegations of involvement in a £59 billion fraud scheme. He was taken into custody in Abuja on Wednesday, March 19, along with two other individuals linked to the case.

The other suspects include Aliyu Abubakar, an unlicensed bureau de change operator connected to Jasfad Resources Enterprise, and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a Point of Sale (PoS) operator. According to EFCC officials, they are being investigated for alleged money laundering, misappropriation of public funds, and the diversion of state resources.

EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the arrests in a statement, revealing that the investigation is linked to Bauchi State Governor Senator Bala Mohammed. The agency’s findings indicate that significant amounts of money were withdrawn through various accounts controlled by the Accountant General under the state government’s name.

According to Oyewale, a total of £59 billion was moved through these accounts. The funds were then transferred to Abubakar and Sambo, who allegedly distributed the money to party agents and associates of the governor. He further disclosed that Abubakar had previously jumped bail in connection with financial crimes but had now been rearrested.

The EFCC has intensified its investigation into the case, focusing on tracking the flow of funds and identifying additional individuals who may have been involved in the fraudulent transactions. Sources within the commission indicate that documents and bank records are being scrutinized to establish the extent of financial misconduct.

The arrest of the Accountant General has sparked reactions across Bauchi State and beyond, with many calling for a thorough investigation to ensure accountability. Political analysts suggest that the case could have wider implications for the state government, especially given its connection to Governor Bala Mohammed.

Authorities have yet to disclose whether more arrests will be made, but the EFCC has assured the public that it will continue to follow the money trail and take action against those found guilty of financial mismanagement. The agency has also reiterated its commitment to tackling corruption at all levels of government.

The Bauchi State government has not yet issued an official statement regarding the arrests. However, some political figures within the state have urged the public to remain patient and allow the legal process to take its course.

The case is expected to attract further scrutiny as investigators work to unravel the full details of the alleged fraud.