The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arraigned the Accountant General of Bauchi State, Sirajo Muhammad Jaja, alongside a bureau de change operator, Aliyu Abubakar, before the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja. The duo faces five counts of amended charges bordering on money laundering, stealing, and criminal conversion of funds belonging to the Bauchi State Government.
The EFCC alleged that the defendants and others now at large converted the sum of N1,192,234,627 of public funds belonging to the Bauchi State Government. According to the anti-graft agency, Jaja transferred the said sum from the Bauchi State Sub-Treasury Account domiciled in United Bank for Africa with account number 1018819396 into the account of Jasfad Resources Enterprise, domiciled in United Bank for Africa with account number 1023444660.
The offences committed contravened Sections 18(2)(b) and are punishable under Section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. If convicted, the defendants could face severe penalties.
During the court proceedings, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges against them. The defence counsel, Gordy Uche (SAN) for the first defendant and Chris Uche (SAN) for the second defendant, urged the court to allow the defendants to continue on the bail earlier granted by the court. They also requested an adjournment to enable them to properly study the amended charge.
The prosecution, led by Abba Mohammed (SAN), did not oppose the bail application. Consequently, Justice Egwuatu granted the request, affirming that the earlier bail terms would remain in place. The matter was adjourned to July 21, 2025, for commencement of trial.
Also listed as defendants but currently at large are Abubakar Muhammed Hafiz, Ari Manga, and Muhammed Aminu Bose. The EFCC is working to bring them to justice.
The EFCC’s commitment to investigating and prosecuting cases of financial crimes is evident in this case. The agency’s efforts to recover looted funds and bring perpetrators to justice are crucial in promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
