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Katsina Revenue Officials Arrested for Alleged Diversion of N1.29 Billion

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Kastina State revenue board arrested by EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested five officials of the Katsina State Board of Internal Revenue for their alleged involvement in the diversion of over N1.29 billion of public funds. The suspects are currently being detained at the Kano Zonal Command of the EFCC and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The arrests followed a petition from the Katsina State Government, which alleged that the suspects colluded to divert funds meant for public health initiatives. International organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and the Alliance for International Medical Action (ALIMA) provided these funds for crucial public health programs.

Modus Operandi: EFCC Nets Five Suspects in Major Corruption Case

Preliminary investigations by the EFCC revealed a complex scheme of fraud. Rabiu Abdullahi, a former Director of Collections and current Permanent Secretary of the Board, allegedly authorized the opening of a bank account in the name of “BOIRS” at Sterling Bank.

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Sanusi Mohammed Yaro, Director of Revenue Account, and Ibrahim M. Kofar Soro became the sole signatories to this account, which then became the primary channel for the alleged diversion of funds

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The Role of a Front Company

Investigations further revealed that the funds were allegedly channeled to “NADIKKO General Suppliers,” a company owned and controlled by Nura Lawal Kofar Sauri, an Assistant Director of Career Skills/Staff Welfare at the Board. Nura Lawal and his company allegedly acted as the primary conduits for laundering the stolen funds.

Tracing the Trail of Laundered Funds

The EFCC has traced the laundered funds to various bank accounts belonging to the suspects. This evidence, along with other investigative findings, will be crucial in building a strong case against the accused individuals.

Also Read: Senate Nears Consensus on Tax Reform Bills Amidst Opposition

Combating Corruption

This case underscores the ongoing challenge of combating corruption in Nigeria. EFCC’s investigation highlights the importance of robust financial oversight and the need for stringent accountability measures to prevent the misuse of public funds.

The arrest of these officials serves as a strong message that the EFCC will not tolerate any form financial malfeasance. The Commission remains committed to its mandate of investigating and prosecuting economic and financial crimes across the country.

If You Ask Me: A Call for Transparency and Accountability

This incident underscores the critical need for greater transparency and accountability in public service. It is imperative for government agencies to implement robust internal controls and financial oversight mechanisms to prevent such instances of fraud.

Furthermore, there is a need for increased public awareness and vigilance in combating corruption. Citizens must play an active role in reporting any suspected cases of financial wrongdoing to the appropriate authorities.

Prosecuting this case successfully will send a strong message to public officials that they must be accountable for their actions. We must use public funds for their intended purposes and prevent acts of corruption from eroding public trust.

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