Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ In the unfolding legal proceedings against the former Governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa, a second prosecution witness, Kassim Yusuf, has provided detailed accounts of the alleged diversion of a staggering N4.6 billion. The funds, received under the guise of a security fund from the office of the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Sambo Dasuki, purportedly took a circuitous route towards purposes that extended beyond their intended use.
Bafarawa, already facing charges related to criminal breach of trust and the diversion of public funds, has been under scrutiny for his role in the management of significant financial allocations. The latest revelations shed light on a complex web of financial maneuvering, with the funds supposedly earmarked for security being channelled into various ventures.
According to Yusuf, who serves as an officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the N4.6 billion was disbursed to sponsor Sokoto State indigenes on Muslim pilgrimages, support Bafarawa’s 2015 presidential aspirations, settle overseas mortgages, and procure a fleet of high-end vehicles. Intriguingly, the funds also allegedly found their way into political campaigns, including the provision of monetary support to Bureau De Change operators for currency conversion.
The witness, led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, detailed a cascade of financial transactions that extended to individuals involved in political activities within Sokoto State. Notable disbursements included substantial amounts for Umra and Hajj allowances, hotel accommodations, and flight tickets for pilgrims. Additionally, funds were directed towards the acquisition of vehicles, political publicity, and various campaign-related expenses.
The allegations further include the transfer of significant sums to overseas accounts, with one instance involving the settlement of a mortgage in the United Kingdom. The National Security Adviser, Major General Muhammad Mungonu, reportedly confirmed that the funds were diverted without fulfilling the intended security project.
As the trial unfolds, these revelations provide a glimpse into the intricate financial dealings that the prosecution contends were conducted under the guise of security allocations. The courtroom drama is set to continue on April 14, 2024, as Bafarawa faces mounting legal challenges related to the alleged financial irregularities during his tenure as Sokoto State Governor.
