Sirajo Jaja is standing trial alongside a bureau de change operator, Aliyu Abubakar, over allegations of laundering and diverting public funds totaling N1.4 billion.
The two men were re-arraigned on Tuesday before Justice O.A. Egwuatu, facing five revised charges related to money laundering, stealing, and the illegal conversion of government funds.
Abubakar is being tried under the business name “Jasfad Resources Enterprise,” which prosecutors claim is a front posing as a legitimate bureau de change.
Three other individuals — Abubakar Muhammed Hafiz, Ari Manga, and Muhammed Aminu Bose — were also named in the case but are currently on the run.
According to the EFCC, the alleged offences took place in Abuja between October 29 and December 31, 2024.
The commission claims that over N1.19 billion was illegally moved from the Bauchi State Sub-Treasury Account at United Bank for Africa into Jasfad Resources Enterprise’s account at the same bank.
The prosecution also alleged that an additional N296 million was laundered between January 3 and March 14, 2025, using a similar method.
The EFCC stated that these actions violate Sections 18(2)(b) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and are punishable under Section 18(3) of the same law.
Both Jaja and Abubakar pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Their lawyers—Gordy Uche (SAN) for Jaja and Chris Uche (SAN) for Abubakar—asked the court to let the defendants continue on the bail they were previously granted.
They also requested time to review the newly amended charges.
Lead EFCC prosecutor Abba Mohammed (SAN) did not object to the request.
Justice Egwuatu approved the application, allowing the defendants to remain on bail and adjourned the trial until July 21, 2025.
KanyiDaily recalls that the EFCC also filed new charges against former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele.
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