The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has re-arraigned Sirajo Muhammad Jaja and Aliyu Abubakar over an alleged ₦1.63 billion fraud case.
The two defendants appeared before the Federal High Court Abuja on an amended five-count charge involving alleged money laundering and diversion of funds belonging to the Bauchi State government.
According to prosecutors, the funds were allegedly moved from the Bauchi State Sub-Treasury account into accounts linked to Jasfad Resources Enterprises between October 2024 and March 2025.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. Their lawyers requested that existing bail conditions remain in place, which the court granted.
During proceedings, the prosecution called a compliance officer from United Bank for Africa, who testified that account documents were provided to investigators and were admitted as evidence.
Justice O. A. Egwuatu adjourned the matter until May 12, 2026, for continuation of trial.
