The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a new charge against Yakubu Adamu, the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, and several others, alleging terrorism financing to the tune of $9.7 million. Adamu, along with Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose, and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed, will be arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja on 10 counts. The charges, filed on December 30, 2025, include conspiracy to provide funds for the benefit of Bello Bodejo and persons associated with him, allegedly used to finance terrorist activities.
According to the charge sheet, the alleged offence occurred between January 2024 and May 2024, during which time the defendants, including former Bauchi State Accountant-General Sirajo Jaja and Samaila Irmiya Liman, conspired to provide $2.3 million in cash, pursuant to approvals granted by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State. The alleged funds were used, in whole or in part, to finance a terrorist or terrorist group, contrary to the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The EFCC’s lawyer, Samuel Chime, had requested that the court allow Adamu and his co-defendants to take their plea on the same day the sister case was heard. However, Justice Emeka Nwite fixed the arraignment for Wednesday, citing that the charge was not in the court file. The case is significant, as it highlights the ongoing efforts of the EFCC to combat terrorism financing and corruption in Nigeria.
The arraignment of Adamu and his co-defendants is the latest development in the EFCC’s crackdown on alleged terrorism financing and corruption. The commission has been actively pursuing cases involving public officials and individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist activities. The outcome of this case will be closely watched, as it may have implications for the fight against terrorism and corruption in Nigeria. The court’s decision on the matter is pending, with the arraignment scheduled to take place on Wednesday.