The Bauchi State Government has launched a strong-worded condemnation of what it described as the abuse of due process and political misuse of anti-corruption institutions, following the arrest and prosecution of its Commissioner for Finance and senior civil servants by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
In a statement issued from Government House, the state said it was alarmed by what it called a calculated attempt to criminalise routine governance, warning that such actions pose a grave danger to public administration not only in Bauchi State but across the federation.
The government insisted that the officials acted strictly within their constitutional and statutory mandates, backed by valid approvals and established financial regulations. “To criminalise lawful governance processes,” the statement said, “is to criminalise government itself.”
‘Afterthought Allegations’ Raise Red Flags
Particularly troubling, according to the government, is the late introduction of terrorism financing and money-laundering allegations, which it noted were absent at the point of arrest and detention. The state argued that no terrorist group has been named, no terrorist act identified, and no credible evidence produced.
“The timing of these allegations,” the statement stressed, “suggests an afterthought designed to intimidate, scandalise and damage reputations rather than serve justice.”
State Debunks ‘At Large’ Claim
The Bauchi Government also dismissed as reckless and misleading claims that the State Accountant-General was “at large,” clarifying that he honoured EFCC invitations, was detained for days, and later released on bail after meeting all conditions.
“At no point did he evade investigation,” the government said, warning that such misrepresentation erodes public trust in the justice system.
Governor’s Name ‘Mischievously Dragged In’
Although not an accused person, the government accused the EFCC of serially inserting the Governor’s name into the charge sheet, describing it as a deliberate attempt to conduct a trial in the court of public opinion and to sidestep constitutional immunity.
The statement described the terrorism financing claim as a “hatchet job” aimed at politically damaging Bala Mohammed, whose record of public service it called “unimpeachable.”
‘A Record That Speaks for Itself’
Recounting the Governor’s career, the government highlighted his rise through the civil service to Director level, his tenure as Senator, five years as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and two democratic mandates as Governor.
“He has never abused constitutional immunity and has never been convicted of any criminal offence,” the statement declared, adding that no manufactured controversy would erode the confidence he enjoys among the people.
Warning Over Rising Tension
The government concluded by expressing concern over the atmosphere of fear and tension surrounding the case, warning that any action—direct or indirect—that threatens the safety of the Governor, his aides, or their families is unacceptable and must be condemned by all defenders of democracy and the rule of law.
— Government House, Bauchi
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