EFCC apprehend Bauchi Accountant General over alleged ₦70b fraud

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested Sirajo Jaja, the Accountant General of Bauchi State, over allegations of financial misappropriation amounting to ₦70 billion.  

Jaja was apprehended in Abuja on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, alongside Aliyu Abubakar, an operator of Jasfad Resources Enterprise, an unlicensed Bureau de Change (BDC), and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a Point of Sale (PoS) operator.

The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering, diversion of public funds, and financial misconduct.

The EFCC has also extended its probe to Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, concerning the case. Further investigations are expected to reveal more details about the alleged fraud.

The EFCC said investigations showed that cash withdrawal of N59billion had been made through various bank accounts opened and operated by the Accountant General on behalf of the state government.

The money was allegedly moved to Abubakar and Sambo, who in turn made cash payments to party agents and associates of the governor.

The BDC operator, Abubakar, earlier jumped bail and has now been rearrested.

EFCC Spokesman, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the arrest.