By Ahmed Ahmed
A group Eyes on Democracy, a pro-democracy and good governance advocacy group, has strongly condemned the recent arrest of Bauchi State’s Accountant General, Sirajo Jaja, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Speaking at a press conference on Monday in Bauchi, The Chairman of Eyes on Democracy’s Bauchi State Chapter called on the EFCC to immediately release the detained Accountant General and handle any allegations against him through legal and transparent means.
He described the action as a politically motivated move aimed at intimidating the administration of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed.
“We view this arrest as nothing but a politically motivated witch-hunt designed to silence Governor Bala Mohammed, a leader who has consistently spoken truth to power,” said Aska,.
According to him, Jaja was taken into custody in Abuja while attending a Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting, despite having no prior invitation or engagement with the EFCC.
He argues that the timing of his arrest coincides with Governor Bala Mohammed’s strong criticism of the presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Eyes on Democracy further accused the EFCC of being weaponized for political oppression rather than fulfilling its mandate as an anti-corruption agency.
“We will not stand by while the EFCC is manipulated for selfish political interests,”
The statement continued, calling on civil society organizations, well-meaning Nigerians, and the international community to take note of what they described as undemocratic actions.
The organization reaffirmed its support for Governor Bala Mohammed, insisting that his administration has managed state resources with prudence and transparency, leading to unprecedented development in Bauchi State.
He warned that any attempt to use state institutions to intimidate or humiliate Governor Mohammed and his administration would be met with strong resistance from the people of Bauchi State.
“No amount of intimidation will stop the march toward truth, democracy, and accountability,” he concluded.
