Bala Mohammed
Bauchi Govt Condemns EFCC’s Arrest of Accountant-General, Says It’s Politically Motivated
The Bauchi State government has strongly criticized the arrest of the state’s Accountant-General, Sirajo Muhammad Jaja, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), labeling the action as politically motivated and an attempt to suppress opposition voices in the state.
The EFCC had detained Jaja and three others on Wednesday over allegations of diverting and misappropriating N70 billion belonging to the state.
However, in a statement issued by Comrade Mukhtar Gidado, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, the government expressed deep concern over the manner of the arrest, describing it as sensationalized and politically charged.
The statement read, “The conduct of the EFCC in this matter raises serious concerns. The sensationalism, politicization, and media trial surrounding the arrest of a government official, who would have willingly cooperated if invited, have created unnecessary drama and suspicion. Many Nigerians now perceive this as a political witch-hunt rather than a genuine anti-corruption effort. The timing and manner of the arrest cast doubt on the real intention behind it.”
The government further revealed that it was taken aback by the arrest, especially as Jaja was in Abuja fulfilling his statutory duty of attending the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting.
The statement emphasized that the matter was already under investigation by the Bauchi State Anti-Corruption Agency, led by DIG Sani Mohammed (retd.), a respected EFCC veteran and anti-corruption expert.
“The EFCC is well aware of this ongoing effort, which has already led to significant actions, including the removal, arrest, and investigation of the immediate former Accountant General and several permanent secretaries,” the statement added.
The Bauchi State Government reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, noting that its administration has been independently recognized as one of the most transparent in public financial management.
“Our track record speaks for itself, and we remain resolute in upholding good governance,” the statement said.
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