The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over N387,483,488 recovered from suspected fraudsters to the Jigawa State Government, following the conclusion of an investigation into the alleged diversion of public funds.
The funds were presented on Tuesday at the EFCC’s Kano Zonal Directorate to the state’s Director of Treasury Operations, Muhammad Haruna.
The recovery followed intelligence from the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), which flagged suspicious transactions linked to alleged misappropriation involving two individuals, Abdullahi Garba and Ayuba Sani.
Acting on the tip-off, EFCC operatives launched an investigation that led to the recovery of the entire sum of N387,483,488 from the suspects.
Subsequently, both men were charged to court over the alleged diversion of public funds. One of the defendants, Abdullahi Garba, pleaded guilty and was convicted, receiving a two-year prison sentence, while the second suspect, Ayuba Sani, is still facing trial.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC Kano Directorate, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Friday S. Ebelo, said the recovery reflects the agency’s determination to ensure stolen public funds are returned to their rightful owners.
“The EFCC will continue to pursue the recovery of proceeds of crime and ensure that justice is served. Funds meant for the development of citizens must not be diverted for private gain,” Ebelo said.
Receiving the recovered funds on behalf of the state government, Haruna commended the commission for its efforts in safeguarding public resources.
“We are grateful to the EFCC for its diligence in recovering this significant amount on behalf of the people of Jigawa State. This effort reinforces the importance of anti-corruption institutions in protecting public funds,” he said.
He added that the recovered money would ultimately benefit the people of the state.