The Bauchi State Government has criticised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over what it described as political misuse of state institutions and abuse of legal procedures following the arrest and arraignment of its officials on allegations of terrorism financing.
Arewa PUNCH recalls that on Wednesday, the anti-graft agency arraigned the Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, alongside three senior civil servants before a Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged terrorism financing — an accusation the state government insists is unfounded and malicious.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bala Mohammed, Mukhtar Gidado, the government expressed “deep concern” over the EFCC’s recent actions, describing them as targeted attempts to criminalise public service and smear the governor’s reputation.
According to the state, the accused officials acted strictly within constitutional and financial regulations, insisting that no offence was committed beyond the lawful discharge of official duties.
“To criminalise routine governance functions is to criminalise government itself and to endanger public administration across the federation,” the statement read in parts.
The government particularly frowned at what it called the “belated introduction” of terrorism and money laundering allegations, noting that such claims surfaced only after judicial scrutiny questioned the legality of earlier procedures.
It said no terrorist organisation or act had been linked to the state, nor had any credible evidence been presented to warrant such grave accusations.
“The timing and manner of these allegations raise fears they were introduced as an afterthought, intended to intimidate, scandalise, and damage reputations rather than advance justice,” the statement added.
The government also dismissed the EFCC’s claim that the Accountant-General was “at large”, clarifying that he honoured invitations, was detained for days, and later released on bail.
Gidado expressed worries that, despite not being listed as a defendant, Governor Bala Mohammed’s name was repeatedly mentioned in the court filings — a move he described as an attempt to subject him to a “trial in the court of public opinion” and violate his constitutional immunity.
“The serial mention of the governor’s name is a deliberate attempt to indict him and politically destroy his image. This is unacceptable,” the statement continued.
The Bauchi State government further warned against actions that could endanger the safety of the governor, his staff, and their families, alleging that an atmosphere of fear and tension was being created around the issue.
It reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability but insisted that the fight against corruption must be impartial, evidence-based, and devoid of political vendetta.
“Selective justice, retaliatory prosecutions, and the politicisation of law enforcement institutions weaken democracy,” the state warned.
The statement further called on the Attorney-General of the Federation to review the EFCC’s conduct and ensure adherence to constitutional safeguards, adding that the governor’s name must be removed from the charge sheet in line with immunity provisions.
While urging political actors to avoid weaponising state institutions, the government said it would continue to defend democratic norms and the dignity of the people.
“Bauchi remains peaceful, united, and focused on governance. No amount of persecution will diminish the confidence the governor enjoys across Nigeria,” the statement maintained.
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