The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over the sum of N387,483,488.00 recovered from fraudulent actors to the Jigawa State Government.
The funds were presented on Tuesday, by the Kano Zonal Directorate of the Commission to the Director of Treasury Operations of the state, Muhammad Haruna, during a brief ceremony at the EFCC office in Kano.
The recovery followed intelligence provided by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), which flagged the alleged misappropriation of public funds involving two suspects, Abdullahi Garba and Ayuba Sani.
Acting on the intelligence, EFCC operatives launched an investigation that led to the recovery of the full amount from the suspects.
Following the probe, the duo were arraigned in court on charges related to misappropriation of public funds. Abdullahi Garba was convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment after pleading guilty, while Ayuba Sani is still standing trial.
Speaking during the handover, Acting Zonal Director of the Kano Directorate, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE I Friday S. Ebelo, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to fighting corruption.
“The EFCC remains resolute in its mandate to investigate and ensure the recovery of proceeds of crime. We are committed to delivering justice to all victims of corruption.
This handover is a testament to our determination to ensure that funds meant for the development of the people are not diverted for personal use,” he said.
Receiving the funds, Haruna commended the EFCC for its diligence and professionalism throughout the investigation.
“We deeply appreciate the EFCC for its efforts in recovering this substantial amount of money for the people of Jigawa State.