In a significant anti-corruption operation, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested the Accountant General of Bauchi State, Sirajo Jaja, over his alleged involvement in a massive N70 billion fraud scandal. The arrest, which took place on Wednesday, is part of an ongoing investigation into financial irregularities and suspected mismanagement of public funds in the state’s treasury.
According to sources within the anti-graft agency, the Accountant General is accused of orchestrating a complex web of fraudulent transactions, including diversion of public funds, contract inflation, and misappropriation of resources meant for developmental projects. Investigators believe that the funds, which were allegedly siphoned over a period of several years, were funneled through various accounts linked to shell companies and private entities with ties to top government officials.
EFCC officials have confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation at the commission’s headquarters. Preliminary findings suggest that the illicit transactions involved unauthorized withdrawals from state accounts, fraudulent contract approvals, and money laundering activities disguised as legitimate government expenditures.
“The scale of financial mismanagement uncovered so far is staggering,” an EFCC insider revealed. “We are determined to unravel the full extent of the fraudulent activities and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”
The arrest has sparked reactions from civil society organizations and anti-corruption advocates, who have long raised concerns about financial misconduct in state governments across the country. Many are calling for a thorough investigation to expose all individuals involved in the alleged fraud and ensure accountability.
Meanwhile, Bauchi State authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the arrest. However, political observers suggest that the case could have far-reaching implications for governance in the state, especially if further evidence links high-ranking officials to the scandal.
As the investigation unfolds, Nigerians will be closely watching the EFCC’s next steps, with expectations that more arrests may follow in the coming days.