The Bauchi State Government has filed a 16-count charge before the State High Court against the immediate past Accountant-General of the state, Dr. Saidu Abubakar, over allegations of misappropriating about N40 billion in public funds.
The case, instituted by the state, lists Dr. Abubakar as the sole defendant in suit number BA/205C/2025, while the government serves as the complainant.
He was arraigned on charges filed under Section 116 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Bauchi State, 2022, to which he pleaded not guilty.
The prosecution alleged that between December 7, 2023, and January 9, 2024, while serving as Accountant-General, Dr. Abubakar allegedly diverted and converted public funds entrusted to his office for personal benefit and other unauthorised uses.
According to the state, the funds in question were part of a multi-billion-naira loan secured from various financial institutions and were allegedly earmarked for a non-existent project involving the procurement of 5,000 motorcycles, among other financial transactions.
The prosecution further argued that the alleged actions violate Section 315 of the Bauchi State Penal Code Law, 2022, and are punishable under Section 312 of the same law.
Presiding judge, Justice Muazu Abubakar, ordered that the defendant be remanded in custody following his plea and subsequently adjourned the matter to July 2, 2026, for hearing of a preliminary objection filed by the defence team.