The Joint Action Movement of Nigeria (JAMN) has strongly condemned the recent arrest of Bauchi State’s Accountant General, Sirajo Jaja, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing the commission of politically motivated actions aimed at destabilizing Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration.
In a statement released by its spokesman, Kabiru Ibrahim Turaki, JAMN expressed concern that the EFCC’s move is not a genuine attempt to fight corruption but appears to be a strategic effort to target the current state government.
The arrest, which took place while Jaja was attending the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting in Abuja, has raised significant concerns over the political ramifications of the investigation.
JAMN criticised the EFCC for what it described as a disruptive approach, questioning the motives behind the investigation, especially regarding allegations of Governor Mohammed’s involvement in fraudulent activities.
The group warned that such actions could discourage public officials from effectively carrying out their duties, fearing unjust consequences, and potentially paralyzing governance in the state.
The statement also drew attention to recent developments in Bauchi State, including the removal of the previous Accountant General and several permanent secretaries, suggesting that these actions may be part of a broader strategy to destabilize the state’s governance.
While JAMN acknowledged the importance of holding public officials accountable, it emphasized the need for transparency and fairness in all investigations.
The group called for stronger safeguards to protect officials acting in good faith and urged the EFCC to conduct its inquiries with professionalism and impartiality to maintain public trust and confidence in the system.
The statement added: “This unexpected turn of events not only raises serious questions about the integrity of the processes involved but also the attempt to cast a shadow over the administration of Governor Bala Mohammed, as the EFCC has claimed an investigation into his alleged involvement in fraudulent activities.
“Such actions could be politically motivated, aimed at undermining the credibility of the current administration.
“Moreover, the arrest of Jaja and the subsequent allegations against Governor Mohammed may have a chilling effect on public service and governance in Bauchi State.
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“We are particularly concerned about the manner in which this arrest was executed. Sirajo Jaja was attending the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting—an official duty crucial to the financial governance of our state—when he was abruptly interrupted by the EFCC.
“The conduct of the EFCC in this matter is deeply troubling. The sensationalism and politicisation surrounding the arrest, coupled with the media trial of a public servant, have given rise to a narrative that many Nigerians perceive as an unacceptable political witch-hunt rather than a genuine effort to combat corruption.
“Moreover, the ramifications of this investigation have already led to significant developments, including the removal of the immediate former Accountant General and several permanent secretaries.
“As stakeholders in the governance of Bauchi State, we urge the EFCC to reconsider its approach and to conduct its investigations with the utmost professionalism and respect for due process.
“JAMN stands firmly against corruption in all its forms, but we equally stand for justice, fairness, and the dignity of public servants. We call on the EFCC to act responsibly and to prioritise the integrity of its operations over sensationalism and political expediency.”
 has strongly condemned the recent arrest of Bauchi State’s Accountant General, Sirajo Jaja, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing the commission of politically motivated actions aimed at destabilizing Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration.){kind=link}