The Bauchi State Government has initiated legal proceedings against Dr. Saidu Abubakar, the immediate past Accountant-General of the state, over allegations of misappropriating N40 billion. The case was brought before the State High Court, where a 16-count charge was filed against him.
Court Proceedings
Justice Muazu Abubakar, presiding over the case on Thursday, ordered that Dr. Abubakar be remanded at a correctional facility in Bauchi. The former accountant general faces accusations under Section 116 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Bauchi State, 2022. He pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Details of the Allegations
The suit, numbered BA/205C/2025, names the State Government as the complainant and Dr. Abubakar as the sole defendant. The prosecutor alleged that between December 7, 2023, and January 9, 2024, while serving as Accountant-General and holding a position of trust over public funds, the defendant misused and converted government funds for personal benefit or unauthorized purposes.
It was further alleged that the funds were part of a multi-billion-naira loan obtained from several financial institutions, purportedly earmarked for a non-existent contract involving the supply of 5,000 motorcycles, along with other banking transactions. The complainant maintained that this conduct contravenes Section 315 and is punishable under Section 312 of the Bauchi State Penal Code Law, 2022.
Next Steps
Justice Abubakar subsequently ordered the remand of the defendant and adjourned the matter until July 2, 2026, for hearing of a preliminary objection filed by the defense counsel. The case will proceed with arguments on preliminary issues before the commencement of a full trial.
