The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially re-arraigned the Bauchi State Accountant-General, Aminu Ahmed Gokaru, on fresh charges relating to a N1.4 billion fraud case. This legal action, which was filed at the Federal High Court in Bauchi, marks a renewed phase in the anti-graft agency’s efforts to tackle financial misconduct involving public officials.
According to a statement released by the EFCC on Tuesday, June 18, 2025, Gokaru is facing an 18-count amended charge that details the alleged misappropriation of public funds amounting to over ₦1.4 billion. The commission accuses the defendant of criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and misappropriation of state resources during his tenure.
The EFCC revealed that the charges stem from transactions that occurred between 2019 and 2021, during which the Accountant-General allegedly approved and facilitated payments without proper documentation or justification. The funds, which were reportedly siphoned from the state’s treasury, were allegedly moved through several accounts linked to individuals and entities with no official ties to the state government.
During his re-arraignment, Gokaru pleaded not guilty to all 18 counts presented against him. His legal counsel urged the court to grant bail under the same conditions previously set when he was first arraigned in 2023. The EFCC’s prosecuting team, however, argued for a review of the bail conditions, citing the seriousness of the charges and the need to prevent interference with the ongoing investigation.
Justice Mohammed A. Aliyu, presiding over the case, adjourned the hearing to July 15, 2025, for the determination of bail conditions and commencement of the trial proper.
This re-arraignment underscores the EFCC’s continued clampdown on corruption within Nigeria’s public sector, particularly in state treasuries where loopholes in oversight often enable high-level financial crimes. The commission emphasized its commitment to prosecuting those who exploit public office for personal gain, and called on citizens to support the fight against corruption.
Public reaction to the case has been mixed, with civil society groups calling for a transparent and speedy trial. Anti-corruption advocates argue that cases such as this should not be allowed to drag in the courts, as prolonged legal battles often erode public trust in the justice system.
Meanwhile, the Bauchi State Government has yet to release an official statement regarding Gokaru’s re-arraignment. Political analysts believe the outcome of this case could have implications for the state’s administrative credibility, especially ahead of upcoming budget reviews and project allocations.
As the case unfolds, it is expected to set a precedent for how financial crimes involving senior state officials are handled across Nigeria. The EFCC continues to urge whistleblowers and stakeholders in the public sector to come forward with credible information to aid ongoing investigations.
Stay tuned for updates as the trial progresses.
Swifteradio.com
