The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arraigned the Accountant-General of Bauchi State, Sirajo Muhammad Jaja, alongside alleged Bureau de Change operator Aliyu Abubakar over accusations involving ₦1.63 billion in alleged money laundering.

The defendants were brought before Justice O.A. Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja on an amended five-count charge bordering on alleged conversion of state funds and financial laundering offences.

The EFCC alleged that the defendants, along with others still at large, moved a total of ₦1,635,270,350.90 from accounts linked to the Bauchi State Government.

Initially arraigned in April 2025, the case was later amended, altering the order of the defendants while maintaining the same allegations.

Both Jaja and Abubakar pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read in court.

Prosecutors alleged that between October 2024 and March 2025, multiple transactions amounting to over ₦1.6 billion were transferred from the Bauchi State sub-treasury account into the account of Jasfad Resources Enterprises.

The prosecution further stated that the transactions violated provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

At the resumed hearing, defence counsel challenged aspects of the amended charge but the court deferred ruling on the objection until the conclusion of the trial.

A compliance officer with United Bank for Africa testified as the first prosecution witness, presenting bank records and transaction details requested by the EFCC.

The witness told the court that several transfers were identified between the Bauchi State sub-treasury account and Jasfad Resources Enterprises across multiple dates.

Documents tendered by the prosecution were admitted as evidence despite objections from defence lawyers, who reserved their arguments for final written submissions.

Justice Egwuatu adjourned the matter to May 12, 2026, for continuation of hearing as the trial proceeds.