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The Bauchi Accountability and Truth Awareness Front (BATA) has expressed its deep concern and condemnation regarding the recent actions taken by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against officials of the Bauchi State government, particularly the arrest of Alhaji Sirajo Mohammed Jaja, the Accountant General of Bauchi State.

The group, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Lawal Sani Ningi, stated that the EFCC’s claims of a N70 billion fraud investigation, which has been linked to the Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, “are nothing more than a politically motivated witch-hunt aimed at undermining the integrity of our state leadership and destabilizing the progress achieved under the current administration.”

According to the statement, the arrest of Alhaji Sirajo Mohammed Jaja, “alongside individuals purportedly connected to him, raises serious questions about the motives behind the EFCC’s actions.”

BATA insisted that “While the fight against corruption is a noble endeavor, it must be conducted with transparency, fairness, and a commitment to justice. Instead, we are witnessing a spectacle that appears to be driven by ulterior motives rather than genuine concern for accountability.

“The timing of these arrests, coinciding with critical periods in the politics of Bauchi State, suggests an orchestrated effort to tarnish the reputation of our state officials and, by extension, the office of the governor.
It is imperative to note that the linking of this investigation to Governor Bala Mohammed is particularly alarming.

“Such insinuations serve only to distract from the real issues at hand and divert public attention from the significant strides the governor has made in governance, infrastructural development, and social welfare in Bauchi State.”

They noted that the governor’s administration has consistently prioritized the welfare of the people, and it is disheartening to witness these achievements being overshadowed by unfounded allegations, saying that “BATA stands firmly against the politicization of anti-corruption efforts.”

BATA called on the EFCC to conduct its investigations impartially and without bias, adding “The integrity of our institutions is paramount, and any actions that compromise this integrity must be scrutinized and challenged. We urge the EFCC to provide concrete evidence to substantiate its claims rather than relying on mere speculation and conjecture.

“Furthermore, we call upon the citizens of Bauchi State to remain vigilant and discerning during this tumultuous period. It is crucial that we do not allow ourselves to be swayed by sensational headlines and politically charged narratives that seek to undermine our collective progress. The people of Bauchi deserve leaders who are committed to their welfare, not targets of politically motivated attacks.

“BATA reaffirms its commitment to accountability and truth in governance. We stand in solidarity with the officials of the Bauchi State government, including Governor Bala Mohammed, and we will continue to advocate for justice and transparency in all matters concerning our state.

“We urge the EFCC to reconsider its approach and focus on genuine efforts to combat corruption that do not compromise the principles of justice and fairness”, the statement concluded.