The Bauchi State Government has expressed concern over the arrest of the Accountant General of the state by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) while he was in Abuja for the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor on Thursday, Mukhtar Gidado, the government described the arrest as surprising, stating that the matter is already under investigation by the Bauchi State Anti-Corruption Agency.
The state government noted that the agency, under the leadership of retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Sani Mohammed, has already taken significant steps, including the removal, arrest, and investigation of the immediate past Accountant General and several permanent secretaries.
“The conduct of the EFCC in this matter raises serious concerns. The sensationalism, politicization, and media trial surrounding the arrest of a government official who, if invited, would have willingly cooperated with the Commission, have created unnecessary drama and suspicion,” the statement read.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, emphasizing that Bauchi has been independently ranked among the most transparent states in public financial management.
While pledging full cooperation with the EFCC, the state government called for fairness and due process, warning against arbitrary actions that could undermine the dignity of government officials.
“Fighting corruption should not be reduced to theatrics or political maneuvering. It must be guided by the principles of fairness, objectivity, and the rule of law,” the statement added.
The government said it would explore all constitutional and legal avenues to ensure its officials are treated fairly.
