Sirajo Jaja, Bauchi accountant-general in EFCC custody for ‘N70bn fraud’

Sirajo Jaja, the accountant-general of Bauchi State is currently in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged fraud.

Jaja, was arrested alongside one Aliyu Abubakar, an unlicensed bureau de change (BDC) operator, and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a point of sale (PoS) operator.

The three individuals were apprehended in Abuja on Wednesday, with investigations pointing to a massive fraud involving the diversion of public funds and money laundering amounting to N70 billion.

EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the arrests, and sources within the commission revealed that the investigation centers on the alleged movement of N59 billion, which was withdrawn from various bank accounts opened by Sirajo Jaja on behalf of the Bauchi State government.

The funds were allegedly funneled through Abubakar and Sambo, who made cash payments to political party agents and associates of Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.

Additionally, Abubakar, who had previously jumped bail, was rearrested in connection with the case.

The EFCC is also looking into Governor Bala Mohammed’s involvement in the scandal.