Group rally behind EFCC investigation into alleged N70bn Bauchi Fraud
By Ahmed Ahmed
A coalition of concerned indigenes under the banner of Bauchi Citizens for Good Governance has publicly declared its support for the ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into alleged massive corruption within the administration of Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed.
This is contained in a press statement issued by the group’s convener, Comrade Musa Ali,made available to newsmen in Bauchi , expressing outrage over the arrest of the state’s Accountant General, Sirajo Jaja, who is being held in connection with the alleged misappropriation of N70 billion in public funds.
According to the group, the Accountant General was arrested alongside an unlicensed Bureau de Change operator and a POS agent, allegedly used as channels to launder and divert the said funds.
“The EFCC has traced these transactions to various bank accounts opened and operated by the Accountant General on behalf of the Bauchi State Government,” Comrade Musa stated.
He further alleged that the diverted funds were funneled through the BDC and POS operators to individuals and political associates linked to Governor Bala Mohammed.
“This fraud is happening while retirees in Bauchi are languishing without gratuities and pensions.
“We cannot allow a few individuals to continue looting the state’s resources unchecked,” Musa Ali declared.
The group dismissed the official response from the state government, describing the statement from the Governor’s media aide as “laughable” for failing to deny the EFCC’s allegations.
Citing past allegations against Gov Mohammed during his tenure as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, the group questioned the sincerity of his leadership and raised concern over political ambitions allegedly funded with state resources.
“We are not surprised by these fresh allegations, especially as Governor Bala is reportedly eyeing the presidency in 2027. His campaign posters have flooded streets, but the real question is who is financing this project?”
The group called on the EFCC to widen its investigation to include all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in Bauchi State, naming specific offices and construction firms for scrutiny. It also demanded that all looted funds be recovered and the perpetrators brought to justice.
Comrade Musa Ali urged Gov Mohammed to address the corruption allegations publicly and take concrete measures to restore transparency and accountability in his administration.
“We shall keep the public updated as developments unfold,” he affirmed.
