By RismadarVoice Media
January 2, 2026
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has described allegations of terrorism financing linked to his administration as persecution, accusing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Federal Government of attempting to criminalize him for refusing to defect to the ruling party.
The Governor spoke in Bauchi while receiving an award as Safety Ambassador from the Safety Institute of Nigeria, expressing concern that his name was mentioned in court processes despite his constitutional immunity.
EFCC on Wednesday arraigned the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, alongside three others: Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The defendants are facing a 10-count charge bordering on conspiracy, conversion of public funds, money laundering and terrorism financing, contrary to Sections 2(1) and 19(1)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Reacting to the development, Mohammed said the allegations were politically motivated, aimed at intimidating him as a leading opposition figure.
“I was told I’m being accused of terrorism as a Governor, someone who is the head of the opposition. My commissioner has been kept and will not be released by the EFCC even when I have immunity as a Governor,” he said.
He accused the EFCC and the Federal Government of using state institutions to pressure opposition politicians who refused to defect to the ruling party.
“This is a country where when you work, you become a villain. I have kept quiet for too long for peace and security. But I am not a coward. I will not join them. I refuse to join their party,” the Governor stated.
Mohammed further alleged that the Federal Government had failed in its responsibilities to states, while weaponizing institutions against perceived political opponents.
“In my state, they have not provided one kilometre of road. They have not provided water. Even security agencies, I am the one paying them to work for us. They have the guts to talk,” he said.
The Governor maintained that despite limited resources, his administration had continued to deliver good governance, citing investments in healthcare, education, efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children.
“We have built our health system, primary education, and reduced out-of-school children. We have been awarded three times by the Federal Government for development and good governance. And they are accusing us? What kind of paradox is this?” he queried.
Mohammed warned that his administration would resist what he described as political intimidation and the weaponization of state institutions, however reaffirmed his willingness to work with the Federal Government in the interest of national development.
“I won’t allow anybody to criminalize me just because I’m not in their party,” he said, adding that his government would continue to uphold transparency and accountability.
