The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought criminal charges against a serving state commissioner and three other individuals for their alleged roles in a multi-million dollar terrorism financing scheme.
High-Profile Arraignment at Federal High Court
On Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the anti-graft agency presented Yakubu Adamu, the Commissioner for Finance in Bauchi State, before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court. He was arraigned alongside Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose, and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed.
The prosecution, led by Samuel Chime, informed the court that the defendants are facing a ten-count charge. The charges border on conspiracy, conversion of public funds, and the critical allegation of terrorism financing.
Details of the $9.7 Million Allegations
The charges are based on provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
One specific count alleges that Commissioner Yakubu Adamu received cash payments totaling $6.95 million in 2024 outside the official banking system, a direct violation of money laundering statutes.
A more severe accusation claims that Adamu conspired with others, including the now-at-large Sirajo Jaja (Bauchi Accountant-General) and Samaila Irmiya Liman, between January and May 2024. They are alleged to have provided approximately $2.3 million in cash for the benefit of Bello Bodejo and his associates.
The prosecution asserts these funds were released based on approvals granted by Governor Bala Mohammed, with reasonable grounds to believe the money would be used to finance a terrorist organization.
Not Guilty Pleas and Bail Proceedings
All four defendants entered a plea of not guilty when the charges were read to them. Following their plea, the prosecution requested a date for the commencement of trial.
Defence counsel informed the court that separate bail applications for each defendant had been filed on December 30, 2025. Prosecution counsel Chime confirmed receipt of these applications and stated that a joint counter-affidavit had been filed in response.
Justice Emeka Nwite subsequently adjourned the case to Monday, January 5, 2026, specifically for a ruling on the bail applications. He ordered that the defendants be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre until the court's decision on bail is delivered.
