A civil society organisation, the Joint Action Movement of Nigeria (JAMN), has voiced deep concern over the recent arrest of Bauchi State’s Accountant General, Sirajo Jaja, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja.
In a statement issued on Saturday, JAMN spokesperson Kabiru Ibrahim Turaki questioned the circumstances surrounding Jaja’s arrest, suggesting that it could have broader implications for governance in the state.
“The EFCC’s claims of investigating Governor Bala Mohammed’s alleged involvement in fraudulent activities further complicate the situation. The timing of these allegations raises questions about the motives behind the investigation,” Turaki stated.
He further warned that such actions might be politically driven and could damage the credibility of the current administration. According to him, politically motivated investigations are not uncommon in Nigeria, where rivalries often play out through legal and investigative channels.
JAMN also raised concerns about how Jaja’s arrest could affect governance in Bauchi State, cautioning that public officials might hesitate in carrying out their duties for fear of being targeted.
“This could lead to a paralysis of governance, where officials hesitate to make decisions for the good of the public, ultimately hindering development and progress within the state,” the statement read.
The group called for mechanisms to protect public officials acting in good faith, ensuring they are not unfairly subjected to scrutiny.
“Safeguards are necessary to ensure that individuals such as Governor Mohammed who are committed to transparency and ethical governance are not unjustly targeted or vilified. The integrity of public service is paramount, and it is essential that those who serve the public can do so without fear of retribution for their actions,” the statement added.
JAMN also criticized the manner in which the EFCC conducted the arrest, noting that Jaja was attending a crucial Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting when he was detained.
“This approach is not only disruptive but also raises ethical questions about the agency’s methods and intentions. Such actions could have been avoided had the EFCC opted for a more professional and respectful approach,” the group said.
The statement further expressed concerns over what it described as the politicization of corruption investigations, emphasizing that the integrity of institutions depends on their ability to carry out inquiries without bias.
JAMN therefore urged the EFCC to conduct its investigations with professionalism and to avoid actions that could erode public confidence in the fight against corruption.
“It is crucial that all investigations be conducted impartially, allowing for due diligence and fair treatment of all individuals involved. As the situation unfolds, it is imperative that all stakeholders prioritize justice and accountability,” the statement concluded.
