BATA Condemns EFCC’s Investigation of Bauchi Government, Calls for Fairness and Due Process
The Bauchi Accountability and Truth Awareness Front (BATA) has criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over its ongoing investigation into alleged mismanagement of ₦70 billion in the Bauchi State Government, labeling the probe as politically motivated and aimed at undermining Governor Bala Mohammed's administration.
Government's Official Response
In a press release issued by Comrade Mukhtar Gidado, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, the Bauchi State Government expressed strong disapproval of the EFCC's actions, particularly the arrest of the State Accountant General, Alhaji Sirajo Mohammed Jaja. The government described the arrest as a politically motivated move that undermines due process.
The statement highlighted that the matter was already under investigation by the Bauchi State Anti-Corruption Agency, led by a retired EFCC veteran, DIG Sani Mohammed. The government accused the EFCC of sensationalizing the case, thereby fueling unnecessary drama and suspicion.
Furthermore, the government criticized the EFCC's approach of marking certain government offices and companies as under investigation, describing it as an attempt to intimidate and distract the administration. The state government sought legal intervention, resulting in a court injunction restraining the EFCC from tampering with its property or disrupting the smooth running of affected offices and companies.
BATA's Position
Echoing the government's stance, BATA argues that the EFCC's investigation is a calculated move to undermine the credibility of the Bala Mohammed-led administration. The group insists that Governor Bala Mohammed has demonstrated a strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance, with notable achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development.
“The people of Bauchi can see the positive impact of this administration. It is unfortunate that, instead of celebrating progress, some forces are working hard to create political distractions,” said Lawal Sani Ningi, BATA leader.
Call for Fairness in Anti-Corruption Efforts
While reaffirming its support for the fight against corruption, BATA emphasizes that such efforts must be carried out without bias, external influence, or political manipulation. The group warns that selective investigations could damage the credibility of anti-corruption agencies and erode public trust in governance institutions.
“No one is above the law, and we support genuine accountability. However, investigations must be based on facts, transparency, and due process—not political pressure or selective prosecution,” the group stated.
BATA also challenges the EFCC to present credible evidence to back its claims, urging the agency to avoid being used as a tool for political intimidation.
Public Awareness and Vigilance
BATA urges Bauchi residents to remain vigilant and not fall for politically driven narratives, emphasizing that leadership should be assessed based on actual performance rather than unverified allegations.
“The people of Bauchi must stay focused on the state’s progress and not allow external influences to create unnecessary divisions. Leadership should be judged by development achievements, not by unverified accusations,” BATA advised.
Broader Implications
The unfolding situation has reignited discussions on the role of anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria, with concerns about whether such investigations are driven by genuine accountability efforts or political maneuvering. As the case develops, stakeholders are calling for fair and evidence-based investigations free from political influence, due process in handling corruption allegations, and a continued focus on governance and development rather than politically motivated distractions.
The Bauchi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and vowed to resist any attempts to undermine its governance through arbitrary treatment of officials.
As the situation unfolds, the people of Bauchi, civil society organizations, and governance analysts will be closely monitoring the developments, not just for their impact on the state but for what they signify about the integrity of Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
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