The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dragged the former Sole Administrator of Sakaba local government, Abubakar Bawa Makuku, and his Director of finance and dupply, Ahmed Abdullahi Fakai, before the federal high court in Birnin-Kebbi over alleged financial misconduct and contract fraud amounting to ₦54 million.
The duo faces a three-count charge of abuse of office, fraudulent contract awards, and financial misappropriation.

The ICPC alleges that Fakai withdrew ₦54 million in six tranches of ₦9 million each from the local government’s accounts, allegedly to bypass financial reporting regulations.

Meanwhile, Makuku is accused of pocketing ₦10 million meant for official government projects and awarding contracts without following due process.

One of the charges states that Fakai’s withdrawal of the funds violated the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Similarly, Makuku is accused of using his office for personal financial gain in breach of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty during their arraignment.

Prosecuting counsel Hamza Sani informed the court of the ICPC’s readiness to commence trial, while defense counsel J.D. Adeyemi requested bail, which the prosecution did not oppose.

The court is expected to set a trial date soon.

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