EFCC Arrests Bauchi Accountant General, Investigates Governor Bala Mohammed Over Alleged ₦70 Billion Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested the Accountant General of Bauchi State, Alhaji Sirajo Mohammed Jaja, in connection with an alleged ₦70 billion fraud. Jaja was taken into custody in Abuja on Wednesday, March 17, 2025, alongside Aliyu Abubakar, the operator of Jasfad Resources Enterprise—an unlicensed Bureau de Change—and Sunusi Ibrahim Sambo, a Point of Sale (PoS) operator.

EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the arrests and stated that the case involves allegations of money laundering, diversion of public funds, and large-scale misappropriation of state resources. He further revealed that the EFCC is investigating Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, as part of the ongoing probe.

According to the Commission, preliminary investigations show that over ₦59 billion was withdrawn in cash from various bank accounts managed by the Accountant General on behalf of the Bauchi State Government. These funds were allegedly funneled to Abubakar and Sambo, who then distributed the cash to party agents and associates linked to the governor.

The EFCC also noted that Abubakar, the BDC operator, had previously jumped bail before being rearrested in connection with the case. Investigations are still ongoing.