The Bauchi State Government has chastised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for what it termed as political abuse of state institutions and legal procedures following the arrest and arraignment of state officials on terrorism financing charges.
Recall that on Wednesday, the anti-graft agency charged the state Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, and three senior civil officers with alleged terrorism financing, a claim the state administration denies.
In a statement issued on Thursday 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 criminalize public service and tarnish the governor’s reputation.
According to the state, the accused officials acted strictly within constitutional and financial regulations, insisting that no offense was committed beyond the lawful discharge of their official duties.
“To criminalize routine governance functions is to criminalize government itself and endanger public administration across the federation,” the statement partly read.
The government particularly criticized 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 added that no terrorist organization or act had been linked to the state, nor had any credible evidence been presented to justify such grave accusations.
“The timing and manner of these allegations raise fears they were introduced as an afterthought, intended to intimidate, scandalize, and damage reputations rather than advance justice,” the statement added.
Gidado expressed concern 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 the governor 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 said.
The 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 free from political vendetta.
“Selective justice, retaliatory prosecutions, and the politicization of law enforcement institutions weaken democracy,” the state warned.
The statement urged the Attorney-General of the Federation to evaluate the EFCC’s actions and ensure adherence to constitutional safeguards and said that the governor’s name should be removed from the charge sheet in accordance with immunity rules.
While asking political actors not to weaponize state institutions, the administration stressed that it would continue to defend democratic values and people’s dignity.
“Bauchi remains peaceful, united, and focused on governance. No amount of persecution will diminish the confidence the governor enjoys across Nigeria,” he added.
