The Bauchi State Government has condemned the arrest of the state’s Accountant General by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing it as unnecessary and politically motivated.
In a statement signed by Mukhtar Gidado, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, the government expressed shock over the arrest, which occurred in Abuja while the official was attending the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting.
The government argued that the matter was already under investigation by the Bauchi State Anti-Corruption Agency, headed by retired DIG Sani Mohammed, a former EFCC official with a distinguished record in fighting corruption.
The agency had reportedly taken decisive actions, including the removal and arrest of the immediate past Accountant General and several permanent secretaries.
Questioning the EFCC’s motives, the statement suggested that the timing and manner of the arrest created suspicion of political interference rather than a genuine anti-corruption effort.
“The timing and manner of the arrest cast doubt on the real intention behind it,” the statement read. “Fighting corruption should not be reduced to theatrics or political maneuvering but must be guided by fairness, objectivity, and the rule of law.”
The Bauchi State Government reiterated its commitment to transparency and financial accountability, emphasizing that the administration has been recognized for its adherence to financial regulations. While assuring cooperation with the EFCC, the government insisted on fair treatment and due process for its officials.
“We will explore all constitutional and legal avenues to ensure our officials are not unfairly targeted,” the statement concluded.
The EFCC has yet to respond to the state government’s allegations, at the time of filing this report.