Justice O.A. Egwuatu of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has rejected an application by Bauchi State Accountant General, Sirajo Muhammad Jaja, seeking permission to travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage and medical treatment.
The ruling was delivered on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, amid Jaja’s ongoing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Sirajo Muhammad Jaja is standing trial alongside Aliyu Abubakar, an alleged unlicensed bureau de change operator, on an amended five-count charge bordering on:
The EFCC alleges that the defendants were involved in the diversion of ₦1,635,270,350.9 belonging to the Bauchi State Government.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, defence counsel Chris Uche (SAN) informed the court of his client’s request for a two-week travel permit, seeking temporary release of his passport for religious and medical purposes.
Prosecution counsel Abba Muhammed (SAN) opposed the request, arguing that the defendant posed a flight risk, particularly as other individuals linked to the case remain at large.
The EFCC backed its objection with a 10-paragraph affidavit, urging the court to deny the application.
In his ruling, Justice O.A. Egwuatu struck out the application, effectively denying Jaja permission to travel.
The case was subsequently adjourned to June 30, 2026, for continuation of trial.
The development underscores the continued efforts of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to prosecute high-profile financial crimes, particularly cases involving public funds and alleged abuse of office.
