By Rauf Oyewole
The Special Advisor to the Governor of Bauchi State on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado has clarified the allegations of alleged N70bn mismanagement by the Accountant General of the State by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The Commission had on Wednesday confirmed the arrest of the current Accountant General, Mr Sirajo Jaja.
Meanwhile, the Special Advisor to Governor Bala Mohammed, in a statement on Thursday evening said that although it acknowledged the EFCC’s responsibility to investigate matters related to financial management, “we must also stress that this particular issue is already under active investigation by the Bauchi State Anti-Corruption Agency, under the leadership of DIG Sani Mohammed (rtd.), a respected veteran of the EFCC and one of Nigeria’s foremost anti-corruption professionals.
“The EFCC is well aware of this ongoing effort, which has led to significant actions, including the removal, arrest, and ongoing investigation of the immediate former Accountant General and several permanent secretaries.”
The statement said that the conduct of the EFCC in the matter raises serious concerns. “The sensationalism, politicisation, and media trial surrounding the arrest of a government official who, if invited, would have willingly cooperated with the Commission, have created unnecessary drama and suspicion.
“Many Nigerians now view this as nothing more than a political witch-hunt rather than a genuine anti-corruption effort. The timing and manner of the arrest cast doubt on the real intention behind it.”
Gidado said that the Bauchi State Government has consistently demonstrated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. Saying that the administration has been independently ranked among the most transparent in public financial management. “We conduct government business fairly and in full compliance with established regulations. Our track record speaks for itself, and we remain resolute in upholding good governance.”
He said the government extends its full cooperation to EFCC in the course of its investigation, and it expected reciprocity in fairness and justice. “No state official should be subjected to arbitrary treatment that undermines their dignity and due process. The state government will explore all constitutional and legal avenues to ensure that its officials are not unfairly targeted or treated unjustly.
“Fighting corruption should not be reduced to theatrics or political maneuvering. It must be guided by the principles of fairness, objectivity, and the rule of law. Bauchi State will continue to stand for justice, transparency, and integrity in governance, and we urge all relevant institutions to do the same.”
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