Former Taraba State Governor Darius Ishaku was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on 27th September 2024, over allegations of a N27 billion fraud.
Ishaku, who completed his term in 2023 after eight years in office, was apprehended at his residence in Abuja in the early hours of the day.
The EFCC had been conducting a covert investigation into his financial dealings since he left office, culminating in his arrest. Reports indicate that the EFCC has prepared at least 15 charges related to financial mismanagement under Ishaku’s administration.
He remains in custody, as he was unable to provide satisfactory explanations for the irregularities. The EFCC spokesperson confirmed the arrest but declined to provide further details.
This arrest is part of a broader crackdown on financial crimes, as the EFCC continues to investigate and prosecute several former public officials for misappropriation of public funds.
CONVERSEER reports that Ishaku, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), served as governor of Taraba State from 2015 to 2023. He was succeeded by Emmanuel Bwacha of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 gubernatorial election.
As the investigation into Ishaku continues, it remains to be seen what charges will be filed against him. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
Ishaku’s arrest comes amid heightened investigations into financial crimes involving former public officials, including former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
Bello is being probed for allegedly embezzling N80.2 billion during his tenure.
The EFCC has been investigating Bello for multiple instances of misappropriation, including funds intended for salaries, pensions, and other state expenditures.
Bello’s case has attracted widespread attention due to the staggering sum involved and its implications for governance in Kogi State.
Bello, who completed his term in January 2024, is facing a range of accusations, and like Ishaku, he is likely to face formal charges in court soon.
His investigation highlights the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to curb corruption, targeting not just one-off instances of fraud but systemic financial malpractice across state administrations.