The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, alongside three other officials, over allegations bordering on terrorism financing, money laundering, and diversion of public funds amounting to about $9.7 million.
The defendants were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the EFCC accused them of conspiring to unlawfully transfer large sums of public money in cash to individuals allegedly linked to terrorist activities. The charges were filed under Nigeria’s anti-terrorism and anti-money laundering laws.
All four defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. The court subsequently adjourned the case to allow arguments on bail, with a ruling expected on a later date.
Although the case has generated widespread public attention, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has not been formally charged, as sitting governors enjoy constitutional immunity from criminal prosecution. However, court filings reportedly referenced approvals linked to the governor’s administration, a development that has fueled political debate.
In response, the Bauchi State Government has denied any wrongdoing, describing the allegations as politically motivated and insisting that all financial transactions carried out by the state followed due process.
The EFCC says investigations are ongoing and that it will present evidence during trial as the case proceeds.